Azam urges MACC to stay steadfast amid criticism, scandals

MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki reminded his officers to remain steadfast against criticism, negative perception, and slander, as there will always be those who are “uncomfortable” with their firmness in enforcing the law.

In a Facebook post yesterday, he reminded MACC to continue upholding high integrity in carrying out the task entrusted to them by the people, with honesty, courage, and professionalism.

His statement came as he faces public scrutiny over his shareholding and the “corporate mafia” scandals.

“There are those who are willing to spread false and unfounded narratives, even though they know the truth. However, we cannot and will not deviate from our responsibilities.

“We need to be firm in our principles (and) remain focused on the mission. Let our work, integrity, and our achievements speak louder than any accusations.”

Having made the statement after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri holiday, Azam said the Ramadan experience was not just about enduring hunger and thirst but also builds discipline, self-control, and integrity.

The fasting month was also to refine noble values that were the true measure of the agency’s success, he added.

Following this, he encouraged the agency to imbue the spirit of Ramadan into daily tasks.

“Now is the time for us to rise with renewed vigour, fresh energy, and renewed focus.

“We need to continue to practice a healthy lifestyle, be disciplined in every aspect, and avoid excesses - whether in food, comfort, or complacency.

“The trust we bear is much greater than temporary pleasure (and therefore we must) continue to serve with sincerity, high discipline, and unwavering commitment… Integrity is our foundation, discipline is our strength, serving the people is our mandate.”

Azam’s scandals

Bloomberg and Malaysiakini separately reported last month that Azam owned significant shares in two companies that appeared to exceed what the civil service allowed.

Companies Commission of Malaysia records revealed that he at some point held 17.7 million shares in Velocity Capital Partner Berhad and around 4.52 million shares in Awanbiru Technology Berhad.

The Velocity Capital Partner shares were believed to have been bought for about RM1.5 million, while the value of the Awanbiru shares was estimated to be between RM1.24 million and RM1.38 million.

While share trading by civil servants is not illegal, the 2024 Public Officers’ Conduct and Disciplinary Management Circular stipulates that civil servants are not allowed to purchase shares that exceed five percent of paid-up capital or RM100,000 at current value.

However, Azam countered that his shareholding did not involve paid-up capital but was acquired on the open market and that he has enough money for stock trading.

In denying wrongdoing, the MACC chief commissioner cited a declaration he made to the Public Service Department (PSD). The PSD has since said it is reviewing the “outdated” shareholding rules.

Corporate mafia

Subsequently, Bloomberg published another report, alleging that MACC officers had colluded with private individuals to strongarm business rivals and stage corporate takeovers and that Azam was aware of the collusion and had even acted in support of such acts.

The government then formed a special task force, headed by Attorney-General (AG) Ahmad Dusuki Mokhtar, where the scope of the investigation was solely on Azam’s shareholding scandal.

The PSD’s disciplinary board on March 10 said it had received the investigation report from the AG and expected to convene a meeting “soon” to discuss its findings.

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