MACC's investigation on the allegation that a Malacca state executive councillor abused his powers to obtain kickbacks amounting to RM2.6 million is still in the preliminary stage, said deputy commissioner (operations) Azam Baki.

"I can confirm that MACC received a report against a Malacca exco member, and an investigation is being carried out.

"Our investigation is still in the early stages, and thus, I urge all parties not to make any speculation," he told Malaysiakini.

Meanwhile, Malacca MACC chief Abu Talib Othman denied a news report quoting him that his department is waiting for the green light to charge the exco.

According to him, the state MACC is not involved in the probe and that he had spoken about two unrelated cases during an event on Tuesday.

"From what I understand, the case (against the exco) is handled by the MACC headquarters. So how could I comment on something that I do not know about," he said.

The news report quoted him as stating that Malacca MACC had submitted its investigation papers to the Attorney-General's Chambers and was awaiting instructions to charge the exco in court.

Sources told Malaysiakini that the Bersatu politician, who is a first-term state assemblyperson and holds a senior portfolio, is accused of seeking kickbacks from a state-linked firm.

However, details are scarce on the nature of the company's business and purpose of the alleged kickbacks.

Malaysiakini is withholding the name of the exco pending his response.

Contacted earlier, the politician said he would comment when MACC issues an official statement on the matter.

Yesterday, Malacca Chief Minister Adly Zahari was reported as welcoming the probe, which he is confident would not affect the Pakatan Harapan administration.