MACC remains main pillar to maintain clean system - PM

The MACC is one of the main pillars of the government to maintain a clean governance system, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

He said his government would never compromise on the issue and gave full authority to the MACC to act without hindrance, fear, or favour, against anyone involved in the abuse of power.

“I have given a clear message that uncontrolled procurement should no longer be allowed and MACC should be given full freedom to search, dismantle, and take action.

“I’m grateful because though there are rebuttals outside, I have the utmost respect for the leadership and the MACC family for carrying out this difficult and unpleasant trust and task,” he said.

He added that the problem of corruption in Malaysia has been firmly rooted and has almost become a culture.

He said this during the MACC Ceremonial Dinner 2025 at the World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur last night, which was also attended by MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki and Chief Secretary to the Government Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.

Acknowledging he had his own history with the MACC, which was previously known as the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA), Anwar said eradicating corruption is not easy because the system and political leadership are sometimes not compatible.

Therefore, as a part of the government previously, he said he prioritised strengthening the ACA with legal amendments, additional officers, and financial support.

“I told the ACA that if we are serious about dealing with the problem of corruption, we must have the commitment to bring about some changes. So we (the government) sent a team to Hong Kong because the country had a history of corruption.

“In the 60s, 70s, Hong Kong was known as the country with the highest level of crime and corruption. So there was a decision at that time to establish the Hong Kong Anti-Corruption Commission. The commission was empowered with strong legal provisions, complete with machinery and officers.

“With these three factors, their freedom from corruption changed in eight years and Hong Kong transformed into a clean country. I was impressed with the report,” he said.

Anwar also assured that as long as he can carry out his duties as prime minister, he will not compromise in the fight against corruption to ensure the country can become free from it in the near future.

- Bernama

There's enough material for a Netflix series, PSM tells MACC

'Nonsense': Warisan chides MACC chief over 'lack of info' excuse

'Sabah graft scandal matter of public interest, probe should be expedited'

'Too little' info hampering probe into Sabah scandal - MACC chief