PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has firmly denied allegations that it received instructions from any parties to refrain from investigating an individual involved in a company's share purchase.
In a statement issued on Friday (Sept 27), MACC clarified that recent news reports by local and international portals suggesting such interference are inaccurate and non-credible.
The commission emphasised that all its enforcement actions are conducted "without fear or fervour," and are free from any form of external influence, adhering strictly to the principles of sovereignty and the rule of law.
MACC described these allegations as baseless and irresponsible, claiming they are meant to tarnish the commission's reputation.
This statement comes in response to a Bloomberg report from Thursday (Sept 27), which mentioned that the Prime Minister's Office denied issuing any directives to MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki to avoid investigating share purchases by Farhash Wafa Salvador, a former political secretary to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
MACC reiterated that investigations are only initiated based on evidence and facts and they do not arbitrarily open investigation papers. The commission also highlighted that its operations are governed by strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) and are overseen by five independent oversight bodies.
Additionally, MACC stressed its commitment to resisting any attempts to divert its focus from ongoing investigations into corruption and misconduct through unfounded accusations.
In conclusion, MACC urged the public not to be misled by these claims, which it believes are aimed at associating the commission with efforts to protect the interests of specific parties.
