Malaysia

Appointment of new anti-corruption chief nears finalisation as PM consults King

The Prime Minister confirms high level discussions with His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim regarding the selection of the next MACC chief commissioner

Updated 6 months ago · Published on 24 Apr 2026 2:43PM

Appointment of new anti-corruption chief nears finalisation as PM consults King
The government seeks to ensure the integrity and independence of the nation’s premier graft buster - April 24, 2026

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has initiated formal consultations with His Majesty Sulltan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, over the appointment of a new Chief Commissioner for the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

Speaking to the media in Johor, the Prime Minister indicated that while the selection process has reached a critical stage, the specific identity of the successor will be revealed only after the necessary protocols are completed.

“Later I will announce the name of the new MACC Chief Commissioner… later, the Prime Minister stated, adding, "I have already held discussions with His Majesty just now.”

The audience with the King, held on Friday, covered a broad spectrum of national interests.

In a statement released following the meeting, Anwar noted that their conversation extended beyond the MACC appointment to encompass the overall management of the country and the various hurdles presented by the current international climate.

“In the audience, I touched on various matters involving the running of the country and the steps being taken, particularly in facing global challenges that are also affecting the country and the people,” Anwar said.

He further pledged that: “God willing, the government will continue working to ensure the welfare of the people is strengthened and the country remains peaceful and prosperous.”

The consultation follows recent remarks from His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, who expressed a firm commitment to ensuring the commission remains a robust and effective body in the fight against corruption, abuse of power, and misappropriation.

His Majesty had previously indicated a personal interest in the selection process to guarantee that the MACC continues to function without interference, asserting via the Royal Press Office that, “I will determine who is the best candidate to lead the MACC moving forward.”

The King also underscored his desire that the appointment remain free from political manoeuvring.

When pressed by reporters for details on the shortlist of candidates submitted for royal consideration, Anwar maintained a light-hearted but firm stance on confidentiality.

“There are 120 eligible names,” he quipped, though he declined to provide further specifics on the frontrunners.

The Prime Minister's visit to Johor also included social engagements in Permas Jaya, where he performed Friday prayers alongside Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and a congregation of over 1,500 worshippers at Masjid Bandar Permas Jaya.

The announcement of the new MACC chief is expected to be a pivotal moment for the administration as it continues its reform agenda. - April 24, 2026

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