Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission dismisses international media claims of collusion with business figures.

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has issued a strong rebuttal to allegations made by an international news organisation, categorically denying any wrongdoing and labeling the claims as unfounded and deliberately harmful.

In a statement released today, the anti-graft agency pushed back against what it characterized as an attack on its institutional integrity and public standing.

The MACC emphasised that it refrains from addressing speculative accusations or matters currently before the courts. The agency stressed that its investigative work operates free from personal or external influence, guided solely by legal frameworks and evidence-based procedures.

“All investigations are conducted independently, without fear or favour, and strictly in accordance with the law,” the commission stated, underlining its commitment to impartial enforcement.

The statement highlighted that decisions regarding criminal prosecution rest with the Attorney-General’s Chambers and the judiciary, reflecting Malaysia’s constitutional principle of separation of powers. The MACC operates under the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 and is monitored by five independent oversight bodies.

The agency rejected the notion that allegations of impropriety can be adjudicated through media reporting, insisting that such matters must be examined through established legal channels and proper judicial process.

The commission invited anyone possessing genuine evidence of corruption or official misconduct to submit information through official channels, where it can be properly evaluated and acted upon according to legal standards.

The statement came in response to a Bloomberg article that accused the MACC and certain senior officials of working in concert with business figures to eliminate commercial rivals and forcibly acquire companies.

The international publication alleged that a select group of entrepreneurs would identify target businesses before filing complaints with the anti-corruption body.

According to the report, MACC would subsequently launch investigations into the companies’ founders, applying pressure that allegedly facilitated the complainants’ ability to seize control of the enterprises.

The commission has not provided specific responses to individual allegations contained in the report, maintaining its position that it will not engage with claims it considers speculative or sub judice.

 The Sun Malaysia