The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has welcomed the statement by the police to postpone their investigation into claims that MACC officers were involved in leaking information that was published in the Sarawak Report portal.

MACC Deputy Chief Commissioner Mustafar Ali said he agreed with the decision announced by Inspector-General of Police Khalid Abu Bakar yesterday that the investigation is being postponed in view of various negative perceptions.

"The MACC understands the duties and responsibilities of the police, and they also understand the duties and responsibilities of the MACC.

"Looking at the situation now, the MACC urges all parties not to spread information that is not verified and negative assumptions that could confuse and even cause uneasiness to the people," Mustafar said in a statement today.

He also said that MACC Chief Commissioner Abu Kassim Mohamed ( photo ), who is recovering from a surgery done in a hospital in Kuala Lumpur on Aug 7, has urged all MACC officers to carry out their duties in an independent, transparent and professional manner, in accordance with the aspirations of the commission.

He said Abu Kassim's operation had long been scheduled and was on the advice of a medical specialist.

Commenting on statements by certain parties that they would gather at MACC premises throughout the country to show support for the commission, Mustafar said: "The MACC requests their cooperation not to continue with such action."

He said such action could create an uneasy situation for the people who had dealings with government departments, as most of the MACC offices were located in federal government complexes or buildings.

“The MACC wishes to express gratitude and thanks to the government leaders, political parties, non-governmental organisations and members of the public who have given the commission moral support either directly or indirectly," he said.

- Bernama