It is a tough journey, said newly-minted Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Shukri Abdull, to return to the graft-buster body he once served for 32 years.

"It is very tough for me," he said without elaborating when asked if he was happy to return to the MACC.

Shukri, who clocked-in at 10.30am today, was greeted by his former comrades, including MACC deputy commissioner Azam Baki and other senior officers.

Shukri then went for a briefing and declined to speak to the media.

"I will have a special briefing with you (the media) tomorrow... there is an interesting story about me that I want to share. I'll reserve it for tomorrow," he said.

Shukri went on mandatory retirement in 2016 after investigating several high-profile cases, including those related to 1MDB.

This was shortly after the resignation of his boss, then-MACC chief commissioner Abu Kassim Mohamed.

Agong gives consent

Meanwhile, chief secretary to the government Ali Hamsa in a statement today said the Agong has consented to Shukri's appointment, which will last two years effective from May 18.

He also confirmed the Agong has consented to the conclusion of Dzulkifli's tenure effective May 14, without having to serve a 30-day notice as was stated in his appointment letter.