Probe involving MACC chief Azam Baki must strictly follow legal framework to uphold public trust
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 18 — Any investigation involving Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki must be conducted strictly in accordance with existing laws to preserve the integrity of the process and maintain public confidence in the country’s legal and institutional systems.
Legal observers have expressed concern that investigations involving senior public officials must not deviate from established legal procedures, as doing so could expose the process to legal challenges and undermine its legitimacy.
These concerns have been shaped partly by a previous episode involving former attorney general Tommy Thomas, who challenged the legality of a special task force formed to examine allegations contained in his memoir, My Story: Justice in the Wilderness.
In his book, Thomas alleged executive interference in judicial affairs and selective prosecution.
However, he later argued that the task force investigating him lacked legal authority because it was not formed under any written law.
He highlighted that unlike a Royal Commission of Inquiry, which is officially established by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and operates transparently, the special task force did not have the same legal standing or authority.
This past incident has been cited as a reminder of the importance of ensuring that any probe involving Azam Baki is conducted under proper legal provisions.
Legal experts emphasised that investigations involving public officers must comply with the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993, which provide the legal basis for disciplinary action against government officials.
In addition, the Public Services Disciplinary Board Regulations 1993 outline the procedures and processes required to handle such investigations properly.
These regulations are designed to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability.
They also protect the rights of individuals involved while ensuring that disciplinary action is carried out lawfully.
Observers noted that failure to follow these procedures could result in legal disputes or court challenges.
Such developments could delay justice and damage public confidence in government institutions.
They also pointed out that a 2024 government circular on public service conduct and disciplinary management reaffirmed the importance of these legal frameworks.
This demonstrates that there is already a clear and established legal mechanism for handling disciplinary investigations.
Legal analysts stressed that adherence to the law is essential not only for procedural correctness but also for maintaining the credibility of institutions.
Public confidence depends heavily on the perception that investigations are conducted fairly and independently.
Any deviation from legal procedures could create doubts about the legitimacy of the findings.
Therefore, experts believe that strict compliance with legal provisions is critical.
They said this approach would ensure that justice is upheld while safeguarding institutional integrity.
Ultimately, following the law will help preserve public trust and reinforce confidence in the nation’s governance and accountability systems.
-wilayah.com.my
