KAJANG – The person allegedly behind the dissemination of a viral video exposing a corruption case involving a state assemblyman has yet to file an official complaint with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
Commission chief Tan Sri Azam Baki said two senior officials have been in instructed to meet the lawyer representing the individual for a confidential discussion.
“…we respect the role of lawyers representing their clients but the matter has already gone public, with various stories circulating in the media. I will refrain from commenting further,” he told reporters at an event held at the Malaysian Prison College Shooting Range today, attended by over 70 media practitioners.
On Tuesday, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor acknowledged that his name was mentioned in video recordings showing assemblymen discussing bribes, but he maintained he had nothing to conceal.
Hajiji said that he was aware of the recordings and affirmed the state government’s readiness to cooperate with any investigation, particularly with the MACC, media reported.
The chief minister also called for scrutiny of the alleged bribe giver, asserting that the person had malicious intent in seeking benefits from the government.
It was previously reported that the lawyer had visited the MACC Headquarters in Putrajaya on October 30 to provide information about the alleged corruption case. During the visit, the lawyer sought protection and immunity under the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010, hoping to ensure their client would not face investigation or legal charges.
Addressing whistleblower protection, Azam emphasised the need for adherence to established laws and procedures to ensure such measures are effective and not abused. He added that there is a common misunderstanding among the public that anyone possessing information about corruption is automatically entitled to protection under the Act.
“This misunderstanding needs to be clarified so that whistleblower protection can be applied appropriately and responsibly,” he said. – November 16, 2024
