PUBLIC perception of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will not disappear simply with changes in leadership, its chief commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman has acknowledged, stressing that the agency must continue proving its credibility through actions and results.
Abd Halim said criticism and dissatisfaction from certain quarters were unavoidable, as individuals had the right to form their own views, but MACC officers must remain committed to carrying out their duties professionally, impartially and in accordance with the law.
He said the commission’s responsibility was not to satisfy every party involved in an investigation, but to uphold the integrity of the process and demonstrate accountability through its findings and enforcement work.
“We need to prove it through our actions and the results of our work. We cannot satisfy everyone. In any investigation, the parties involved may not be satisfied and may form negative perceptions.
“That is their right, but if we carry out our duties according to the law, procedures and the correct framework, we have nothing to fear.
“We must carry out our responsibility with sincerity, honesty and full commitment. Perceptions will always exist, but confidence in the integrity of the process and the professionalism of our officers must be upheld,” he said during the MACC podcast programme “Kolar Hitam: Bukan Sekadar Operasi” hosted by MACC Strategic Communications Division Director Hisyam Mohd Yusoff.
Addressing criticism against investigations before they are concluded, Abd Halim urged the public to avoid comments that could interfere with, influence or prejudice ongoing cases.
“The right to express opinions is the right of every individual, but every right has its limits. Section 48 of the MACC Act 2009 provides for offences relating to acts that obstruct or interfere with investigations.
“Therefore, give trust to enforcement agencies to carry out their duties.
“Not every complaint made to MACC must necessarily be proven true. The function of MACC is to investigate, examine evidence, consider all angles and make recommendations based on the findings of the investigation. After that, investigation papers are referred to the Attorney General’s Chambers for further consideration and decision,” he said.
Abd Halim said MACC officers were entrusted to conduct investigations independently, with investigating officers required to be competent, certified and officially appointed.
“After investigations are carried out and reviewed by senior officers, the matter is referred to the Attorney General. MACC recommends the outcome of investigations, but the decision to prosecute or not prosecute lies under the authority of the Attorney General.
“Society needs to understand this process and should not expect every complaint to produce an outcome according to the wishes of the complainant. MACC is an independent agency that does not favour any party,” he said.
After three months leading the commission, Abd Halim said MACC must continue modernising by strengthening the use of technology, including artificial intelligence, while expanding training opportunities for officers both domestically and internationally.
He said the pursuit of a corruption-free society required collective responsibility beyond enforcement agencies alone.
“The goal is zero corruption, and whether it can be fully achieved or not, efforts must continue collectively. This responsibility cannot be left to MACC alone. The government, private sector, schools, families and the entire society must play their part,” he added. - July 29, 2026
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