THE Chief Commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, Tan Sri Azam Baki, has issued a letter of demand to Bloomberg over an article he describes as defamatory, following claims that he owned millions of shares in a financial services company.
Azam, through his solicitors Tetuan Zain Megat & Murad, is seeking RM100 million in damages, alleging the report has harmed his reputation and professional standing. The firm confirmed that the letter of demand was dispatched to Bloomberg’s offices in both the United States and Malaysia.
In a statement issued today, the law firm characterised the article as “defamatory, irresponsible and highly misleading”, contending that it had not only caused personal damage to Azam but had also tarnished the dignity and integrity of the office of the MACC Chief Commissioner.
The firm confirmed it had been instructed to commence legal proceedings and to pursue all available legal remedies, including damages and other appropriate relief.
According to the letter of demand dated 12 February 2026, sighted by the New Straits Times, the article titled ‘Malaysian Anti-Graft Chief Returns to Stocks After Outcry’ was published on 10 February and written by two journalists.
The letter states that the article alleged Azam, in his capacity as MACC Chief Commissioner, held 17.7 million shares in Velocity Capital Partner Bhd based on filings with the Companies Commission of Malaysia, and described it as the first public disclosure of a substantial holding under his name since an earlier controversy.
The letter of demand argues that the publication created the impression that Azam had failed to publicly declare his assets and suggested impropriety in relation to the shareholding.
It maintains that Azam had fully complied with all asset declaration requirements applicable to civil servants, including declarations made through the Human Resource Management Information System to the Public Service Department.
The solicitors further assert that the shares referred to had been disposed of prior to the publication of the article, and that any investments undertaken were funded through lawful income and retirement benefits accrued over nearly four decades in public service.
The article is also accused of reviving previous allegations that had already been investigated and resolved, thereby creating what the letter describes as a misleading narrative of misconduct.
Overall, the report is alleged to imply that Azam acted unlawfully, dishonestly or possessed unexplained wealth.
The letter of demand calls on Bloomberg to issue a clear and unconditional written apology within 14 days, to retract and remove the article from its website, Bloomberg Terminal and all third-party syndicated platforms, and to publish an apology on terms agreed by Azam’s legal representatives.
In addition, it seeks RM100 million in damages for alleged injury to his reputation and professional position.
The law firm reiterated that Azam had not breached any law, regulation or public service directive, and that all relevant declarations and documentary records exist and are verifiable.
It added that he remains committed to integrity, accountability and the rule of law in the discharge of his public duties. - February 13, 2026
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