No one can freely enjoy money gained through corruption - Azam Baki

“I was once asked why MACC is so eager to investigate old cases."

04 Dec 2025 11:23am

In the effort to strengthen societal integrity, Azam said policy is an important element in this matter. - Photo: Bernama

PUTRAJAYA – “If a case involves a significant loss, I want to ensure that the money taken is returned and the perpetrator must not be allowed to freely enjoy the funds. This is my duty.”

Those were the firm words of Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki, highlighting his stance on corruption and the accountability expected of those in power.

Azam said anyone involved in corruption must face action without compromise.

He acknowledged that leading the commission carries a major responsibility, with the agency facing challenges in tackling corrupt individuals at both high and lower levels.

Azam further emphasised that the agency had faced numerous challenges, including dealing with corrupt individuals at both higher and lower levels. - Photo: Bernama FILE PIX

“I was once asked why MACC is so eager to investigate old cases. I said that this is my responsibility. If you cannot do it, then you should not be in the MACC.

“I am here and the work must continue regardless of who is involved, whether the case is new or old.

“If it is true that the case involves a significant loss of money by those previously in power and if it is proven, I want to ensure the money is returned to the government,” he said in an interview with Sinar at the MACC Headquarters in Putrajaya recently.

Azam said the agency must investigate diligently, noting that failure to act would invite public criticism in the future.

He emphasised that MACC has the authority to probe such cases and that no assigned responsibility should ever be neglected.

He revealed that from 2024 until September 2025, MACC opened 2,056 investigation papers and recorded 2,356 arrests, including 380 women.

Offences investigated included those under the MACC Act 2009, false claims, abuse of power, money laundering offences under AMLATFPUAA 2001, and cases under the Penal Code.

Arrests involved civil servants, members of the public, private sector employees, those from government-linked companies (GLCs) and political figures.

Azam stressed that strengthening societal integrity requires clear policy direction.

“Policies and agendas must be clear as guidance for people in cultivating culture and integrity.

“The existence of the MACC Act 2009 and the Penal Code, for instance, represents the laws used to regulate people.

“Behind these laws is the effort to build integrity and humanity,” he said.

When asked about the integrity of personnel and officers in the department, Azam stressed that there is no compromise.

He said instructions have been issued for every head of department to monitor their subordinates, especially regarding changes in lifestyle.

“There is no compromise for anyone who violates integrity within the department.

“Even those who are involved and take and keep ketum water are considered to have committed an offence according to our standards, let alone offences involving drugs.

“Taking bribes and committing crime are extremely serious offences in the MACC.

“Integrity already exists among my officers, but I worry that human beings may forget due to life problems, circumstances and other factors. Among the indicators observed are assets and behaviour,” he said.

He added that lifestyle must be monitored by department heads as it is a visible indicator.

He stated that he had instructed MACC sector heads to report immediately any significant lifestyle changes among subordinates without delay.

He emphasised that sector, department, and division heads were responsible for ensuring this.

Creating a major impact

Ahead of International Anti-Corruption Day this December, Azam said he hopes the occasion will leave a meaningful impact on society.

“This date is symbolic and I want the effort to continue beyond that day alone. Celebrating Anti-Corruption Day is meant to remind everyone to stay away from corruption.

Azam hopes International Anti-Corruption Day, celebrated this December, will bring a significant impact to all members of society.

“My approach this year focuses on asset recovery and reducing leakages, emphasising that public funds must no longer be lost.

“I want society to have a sense of unity. The spirit must be nurtured, especially among the younger generation,” he said.

Azam added that his aspiration as Chief Commissioner is for all MACC officers to carry out their tasks without fear or favour. He said MACC would take the appropriate action in any case, whether by prosecution or other legal means, in the interest of the people and the country.

Arrest statistics:

2024