Anwar Urges Special Committee to Probe Azam Baki Allegations Without Interference
SHAH ALAM, Feb 13: Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has assured that investigations into allegations involving Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki will be conducted transparently and without protecting any individual.
Anwar said the special committee established to review the matter should be given sufficient space to conduct a comprehensive assessment before any action is taken.
“Let it be studied first. We need to know whether the allegations are serious and whether there is a basis before taking action. We cannot act simply because of pressure or opportunism. It must be examined properly,” he said after performing Friday prayers with staff and students at Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Polytechnic here today.
He was responding to questions on whether Azam should be temporarily relieved of his duties during the investigation.
At the same time, Anwar advised MACC officers to remain courageous and firm in carrying out their responsibility to combat corruption, stressing that ongoing issues should not disrupt the commission’s overall role.
The prime minister noted that strong enforcement against corruption often triggers backlash from affected parties and that support for anti-corruption efforts remains weak, both in and outside Parliament, including among politicians and some civil society groups.
“MACC must continue to perform its duties boldly and decisively, regardless of external views, to protect the country from corruption,” he said.
Earlier, MADANI Government spokesperson Datuk Fahmi Fadzil confirmed that the Cabinet had agreed to establish a special committee to investigate allegations and related matters involving Azam Baki. Fahmi, who is also the Communications Minister, said the decision was made during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Anwar.
Previously, Bloomberg reported allegations involving Azam, which prompted public debate and calls for further scrutiny.