Anwar: Special Committee Probing Allegations Against Azam Baki Must Be Given Space to Act
SHAH ALAM: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has assured that investigations into allegations involving Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Azam Baki will be conducted transparently and without shielding any individual.
Anwar said the special committee established to examine the allegations must be allowed sufficient space and time to carry out a comprehensive review before any decision is made.
“For now, let it be studied thoroughly. We need to understand the case first — whether it is serious and whether there is a basis — before taking any action. We cannot allow pressure or perceptions to dictate the process. It must be properly examined,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after performing Friday prayers with the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Polytechnic community here.
Action to Be Based on Findings
Responding to questions on whether Azam should take leave pending investigations, Anwar indicated that the government would not act prematurely and would instead rely on the findings of the special committee.
Earlier, Communications Minister and Madani Government spokesman Datuk Fahmi Fadzil confirmed that the Cabinet, chaired by Anwar, had agreed to set up a special committee to investigate all allegations and related matters involving Azam.
The move followed international media reports claiming that Azam held shares in a financial services company based on corporate filings.
MACC Urged to Remain Firm in Anti-Corruption Efforts
At the same time, Anwar urged MACC officers to remain resolute in carrying out their mandate to combat corruption.
He acknowledged that firm action against integrity offences often triggers backlash from those affected, but stressed that such reactions should not derail the commission’s broader role.
Anwar also noted that support for anti-corruption efforts remains uneven across Parliament, political circles and certain segments of civil society.
He emphasised that MACC must continue to discharge its responsibilities courageously and decisively to safeguard the nation from corruption.
Azam has previously stated that his shareholding, reportedly valued at RM800,000, was acquired transparently and in accordance with established procedures.
-wilayah.com.my
