KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) recommended that an act be enacted in Parliament to make it compulsory for members of the government administration, Parliament, and the Senate to declare their assets.
MACC Deputy Chief Commissioner (Prevention) Datuk Seri Shamshun Baharin Mohd Jamil said this was because as of now, no clear punishment could be taken against those who did not do so.
He said in 2019, the Dewan Rakyat unanimously approved a motion to make it compulsory for all MPs to declare their assets to the Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, and for a copy to be given to the MACC.
“The MACC only acts as the custodian of the information in this matter. The commission will then display it on its asset declaration portal within three months after it is declared,” he told reporters in an online session today.
According to him, as of July 6, 97 members of the administration, 198 MPs, and 39 senators have declared their assets, while six members of the administration, 22 MPs, and 26 senators have yet to do so.
Shamshun said that there is currently no specific law with regards to the declaration of assets, and MACC could not verify the declaration documents received.
“Investigations are only conducted on individuals who are seen leading extravagant lifestyles beyond their income level under Section 36 of the MACC Act 2009,” he said.
He said Malaysia could follow the lead of neighbouring countries such as Indonesia and Thailand, which already have legal provisions in place with regards to asset declaration. – Bernama, July 13, 2021
