8 hours ago
CSO Platform for Reform: Make MACC fully independent to restore public trust
KUCHING (June 21): The government must establish a fully independent Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to carry out impartial investigations and prosecutions of all corruption cases, including those involving high-ranking officials, said CSO Platform for Reform.
In a statement today, the coalition stressed that only a truly autonomous MACC can help restore and strengthen public confidence in Malaysia's anti-corruption efforts.
It also called for a clear separation between the roles of the Attorney-General (AG) and the Public Prosecutor (PP), independent from the Prime Minister's Office, to ensure that prosecutorial decisions are made without political influence or interference.
'This essential structural reform will uphold the rule of law and ensure that justice is carried out fairly and transparently. By distinctly separating these functions, both the AG and PP can perform their duties with full integrity, thereby strengthening the credibility and impartiality of Malaysia's legal system,' it said in a statement today.
The call comes in response to the recent Kuala Lumpur High Court decision to grant former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak a discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA) on three money laundering charges related to SRC International, a former subsidiary of 1MDB.
CSO Platform for Reform also called for a strong and unwavering commitment from all levels of government, including both state and federal authorities, to actively combat corruption in all its forms.
It emphasised that the government must respect and protect the rights of all groups and individuals who peacefully demand anti-corruption measures through demonstrations and public assemblies.
'Upholding the right to peaceful protest is essential for a vibrant democracy and allows citizens to express their concerns and advocate for transparency and accountability without fear of repression or intimidation. Ensuring these rights strengthens civic engagement and supports the broader fight against corruption in Malaysia.'
CSO Platform for Reform pointed out that Najib's DNAA in this high-profile 1MDB-linked case highlights ongoing challenges within the country's legal system in addressing corruption involving powerful figures.
'Despite his conviction and imprisonment on other related charges, this development reflects the complexities and procedural hurdles that can affect the timely and thorough prosecution of such cases.
'The use of DNAA in this context underscores concerns about the pace and effectiveness of legal proceedings in corruption trials, which can contribute to public skepticism and affect confidence in the justice system,' it explained.
According to CSO Platform for Reform, corruption remains a widespread issue affecting all regions of the country, posing a serious threat to the health and stability of Malaysia's democratic system.
