KOTA KINABALU: Media reports on corruption cases may not be considered as ‘direct evidence’, but often serve as valuable leads for the Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to initiate investigations.
Recognising the media’s roles in combating corruption, Sabah MACC director Datuk S Karunanithy said that there were many cases brought to light, leading to successful investigations.
“With the country’s ongoing digital transformation, the media plays an essential role, particularly in helping the MACC disseminate information related to our investigations and expose corruption cases,” he said at an engagement with the Sabah Journalists Association (SJA) on Wednesday (Aug 14).
Also present was SJA president Datuk Muguntan Vanar.
Acknowledging the media as “MACC’s partner”, Karunanithy said that when the media publishes stories about corruption, it allows the MACC to investigate further.
The media, he added, also plays a key role in spreading messages about corruption prevention and promoting government initiatives against corruption.
On the public perception of the Commission, Karunanithy said the people are reacting positively towards their work, adding that many successful cases resulted in recovered funds and the prevention of further corruption.
MACC also highlighted the presence of integrity officers in all government ministries who help in maintaining transparency and accountability.
In Sabah, for example, the collaboration with integrity officers led to the successful operation codenamed "Op Fly", which targeted the illegal sale of ‘flying passports’, a practice involving forged passport renewals.
This operation is one of many efforts where the MACC works closely with other agencies to combat corruption.
