Malaysia’s Ruling Coalition Party Demands Royal Commission to Probe Anti-Graft Agency Allegations

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 25: A leading party within Malaysia’s ruling coalition has called for the establishment of a royal commission of inquiry (RCI) to investigate allegations of misconduct against the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and its leadership.

The call comes after multiple media reports earlier this month accused MACC officials of misconduct, violations of public service laws, and assisting a group of businessmen in seizing control of companies. Bloomberg cited internal documents and witness interviews, although Reuters has not independently verified those claims.

MACC responded on Tuesday, dismissing the allegations as “baseless” and describing them as an effort to undermine its corporate investigations and enforcement operations.

However, the Democratic Action Party (DAP), a key member of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s coalition government, said MACC’s denial was “insufficient” and emphasized the need for an independent investigation.

“There must be an inquiry into the allegations made, and that inquiry ought to be by way of an RCI equipped with all the powers necessary to ensure an effective and transparent probe,” said Gobind Singh Deo, DAP national chairman and cabinet minister.

Anthony Loke, DAP leader and transport minister, said he plans to propose the formation of the RCI at Friday’s cabinet meeting, according to local media reports.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s office has yet to comment on the latest developments. Earlier this month, the government set up a special committee to investigate the MACC chief following another media report alleging breaches of shareholding laws.

The growing calls for transparency underscore mounting public scrutiny of Malaysia’s anti-graft agency and its operations within the corporate sector.