The Anti-Corruption Advisory Board (LPPR) has called for immediate formulation of provisions on corporate liability and misconduct of civil servants to improve the effectiveness of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

In a statement issued in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, LPPR said the matter had been brought to the government's attention, but there was no follow-up action.

The board also proposes that Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009 to be amended to ensure that civil servants do not manipulate any weaknesses in the law, particularly those pertaining to the awarding of tenders, contracts, government projects and land ownership.

It also wants Section 36 of the MACC Act 2009 to be amended to ensure civil servants living beyond their means are made to declare their assets.

"One of the constraints facing MACC is to investigate the financial status and property ownership of an individual whose wealth is beyond their means," it said.

MPs urged to back amendments

LPPR also urged parliamentary members to support amendments to the Federal Constitution, in particular on the MACC chief commissioner's service and the establishment of the Anti-Corruption Officers Services Commission.

"As one of the five independent bodies established in accordance with Section 13 of the MACC Act 2009, LPPR has the responsibility to advise MACC on all aspects of corruption in the country, to advise on MACC's policies and strategies to eradicate corruption, and to receive, examine and endorse proposals from MACC in an effort to be efficient and effective," it said.

The statement stated that at its second meeting yesterday, the board expressed its appreciation to the Sarawak government under the leadership of Chief Minister Adenan Satem ( photo ), the General Operations Force, State Forestry Department and the Inland Revenue Board for their cooperation in providing information in the recent 'Ops Gergaji'.

'Ops Gergaji' was held to combat corruption, illegal logging and forest clearing in Sarawak and actions by logging companies in Sarawak to avoid paying tax.

- Bernama