THE Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is preparing to lay bare governance deficiencies within the Defence Ministry when it convenes with senior military officials this Wednesday, with procurement and accountability issues expected to dominate discussions.
The high-level meeting follows two MACC operations that resulted in the arrest of seven military personnel, including three senior officers, and the seizure of cash and assets exceeding RM50 million.
Sources indicate that MACC’s Governance Investigation Division began examining allegations of fund misappropriation and abuse of power within the armed forces last year.
“They have been examining governance issues and areas for improvement. Their findings are expected to be discussed at Wednesday’s meeting,” a source said.
MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki told the New Straits Times that discussions with the Defence Ministry will focus on ongoing issues, particularly procurement tenders.
“The meeting is aimed at preventing corruption and abuse of power. It will also cover efforts to strengthen governance in the ministry,” New Straits Times quoted him saying.
Sources added that MACC Deputy Chief Commissioner (Prevention) Datuk Azmi Kamaruzaman is expected to attend the meeting. When asked whether certified integrity officers might be deployed to the armed forces, Azam noted that manpower constraints currently limit such assignments.
At present, two certified integrity officers are attached to the ministry to plan, implement, and monitor integrity programmes, cultivate a culture of accountability, and curb misconduct and abuse of power.
The upcoming session also follows recent revelations regarding the so-called ‘Yeye’ culture within military ranks.
Army chief General Datuk Azhan Md Othman confirmed that 15 army officers had been implicated in alleged immoral activities associated with the viral trend.
A probe has been conducted into the matter, and action is being taken against the officers involved.
“The army takes any breach of orders, instructions, and service regulations seriously, and action will be taken against those found guilty,” Azhan said. “I have instructed the army’s Criminal Investigation Branch and other military agencies to probe into all complaints received.”
The meeting between MACC and military leadership marks a critical step in addressing longstanding governance challenges within Malaysia’s armed forces and reinforcing accountability in both conduct and procurement practices. - January 18, 2026
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