TRANSPARENCY International Malaysia (TI-M) has urged authorities to conduct an impartial and transparent investigation into the disputed circumstances surrounding the arrest of businessman Albert Tei, insisting that the outcome must be made public.
The watchdog said the conflicting accounts circulating about the raid — including allegations by Tei’s wife that Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officers had pointed a firearm at his head, a claim the commission has firmly denied — had raised serious concerns.
TI-M described the situation as “controversial” and said only a clear, independent inquiry could restore public confidence.
Tei was arrested on Thursday by armed MACC personnel dressed in balaclavas and vests bearing the commission’s insignia.
His lawyer, Zaid Malek, said the officers refused to identify themselves during the raid on Tei’s home and throughout the arrest, an issue that has intensified scrutiny of the operation.
TI-M said the matter now requires swift clarification, adding that transparency is essential to ensure due process and accountability in high-profile enforcement actions.
"This state of affairs leaves much to be desired. It is not helpful to the public interest and may erode confidence in efforts to ensure that the fight against corruption is principled, professional, and just," New Straits Times cited TI-M president Raymond Ram saying.
Ram said a full and independent probe should cover both the enforcement operation and the underlying corruption allegations.
The investigation had also led to the arrest of PKR's Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin and Sofia Rini Buyong.
TI-M also called for transparency in official communication.
"Clear updates from the authorities will help reduce rumours and speculation about political manipulation. Transparency is the most effective tool for restoring public trust," Ram said.
He added that enforcement agencies must adhere strictly to due process.
"Respect for constitutional rights and legal safeguards must remain central to every enforcement action. The pursuit of justice must never come at the expense of fairness."
Ram said exceptional powers, such as limiting immediate access to legal counsel, should be exercised only when absolutely necessary and with clear justification.
MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki yesterday said Tei was served with a Section 28A(9) notice under the Criminal Procedure Code, which allows investigators to restrict an accused person's right to communicate with lawyers or any other party.
"This is not an isolated incident but part of a larger national challenge, ensuring that institutions remain credible, independent, and accountable," Ram said.
"Only through transparency, fairness, and integrity can Malaysia move forward and preserve the trust of her rakyat." - November 29, 2025
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