A Malaysian minister has urged the Inspector-General of Police to explain the progress of the investigation into the alleged existence of a network of businessmen who allegedly conspired with anti-corruption agency officers to bring down corporate executives.
The government had previously ordered several enforcement agencies including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to investigate the issue dubbed the ‘corporate mafia’.
So far, the police have announced that no evidence has been found linking the MACC to the allegations.
Gobind Singh Deo stressed that it has been almost two months since the Cabinet voiced concerns and demanded a full investigation, hence transparency must be given priority in ensuring public confidence is not undermined.
He also urged the Securities Commission of Malaysia to explain the steps it has taken, given that the body has jurisdiction if there is an element of market manipulation or illegal share transfers.
At the same time, relevant parties including the police, MACC and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s office have yet to provide any official response. The issue has continued to be a hot topic following previous reports that also implicated MACC Chief Commissioner Azam Baki, who has denied any wrongdoing.
The government has also appointed former High Court judge Abdul Halim Aman as the new head of MACC to replace Azam Baki after his term ends. This development is seen as part of efforts to strengthen the integrity of the institution.
The government has stressed that the investigation must be conducted thoroughly and transparently, as this issue involves the public interest as well as the integrity of the market and national institutions.
