New MACC Chief Pledges Tougher Action Against Corruption and Abuse of Power
PUTRAJAYA : Newly appointed Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman has vowed to intensify the fight against corruption, abuse of power, and misappropriation across the country.
Delivering his maiden address on Wednesday (May 13), Abd Halim expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him to lead the nation’s anti-graft agency and urged all MACC officers to uphold the responsibilities entrusted to them with integrity and professionalism.
“The mandate carried by officers must not only be carried out with integrity but should also serve as a pledge that every MACC officer is duty-bound to uphold,” he said during a meeting with senior officials and division directors at the commission’s headquarters in Putrajaya.
He acknowledged that challenges and obstacles in enforcement duties were unavoidable but stressed that all actions must be handled wisely and in accordance with established laws and procedures.
Earlier in the morning, Abd Halim arrived at the MACC headquarters at approximately 8.20 am, where he was welcomed by deputy chief commissioners Datuk Seri Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya (Operations), Datuk Azmi Kamaruzaman (Prevention), and Datuk Junipah Wandi (Management and Professionalism), along with senior officers of the commission.
In a symbolic gesture marking the start of his tenure, Abd Halim officially clocked in by scanning his access card and placing his palm on a digital verification tablet.
During his address, he reminded officers to avoid any form of misconduct or oppression while carrying out their duties and encouraged continuous improvements whenever weaknesses or mistakes are identified, whether intentional or otherwise.
Abd Halim also stressed the importance of maintaining public confidence in the MACC, noting that every officer carries the responsibility of safeguarding the commission’s credibility through diligent and transparent work.
On enforcement and prosecution matters, he said investigations and prosecutions must move in tandem to ensure corruption cases brought before the courts can proceed more effectively and smoothly.
Among the reforms expected under his leadership are stronger coordination between the MACC’s investigation and prosecution divisions, as well as improved internal placements to address the shortage of investigation officers.
He also emphasised the importance of continuous public education and awareness efforts to strengthen corruption prevention nationwide.