BANGI: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has shortened the investigation period for high-profile cases from one and a half years to just six months, thanks to the implementation of new approaches.
MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said the factors enabling the shorter investigation period included upskilling officers, utilising the latest technology and improving investigation modules and systems by reviewing outdated elements in the commission's procedures.
"About 10 years ago, we needed to dispatch many officers to conduct surveillance. But now, we just use technology to locate suspects and witnesses. So, in a very short period, we can locate the suspect or the person we want to find,” he said at a press conference after attending the 2025 MACC-NTU International Law Enforcement Programme Convocation on Thursday (June 12).
Azam said the MACC had established strategic collaborations with external parties to strengthen its investigation capabilities, especially in technical aspects and financial forensics.
He added that international cooperation also played a vital role, particularly in tracing and recovering assets located abroad.
"We collaborate with many parties. For example, our collaboration with the Malaysian Institute of Accountants helps us with asset tracing and forensic accounting," he said.
On the need to increase staffing, Azam said that although there was a rise in the number of reports from 2020 to April 2025, the mass recruitment of MACC officers was not the primary solution to strengthening anti-corruption efforts.
"The most important thing is our approach," he said.
During that period, Azam said 5,145 investigation papers were opened, leading to the arrest of 5,703 individuals. Out of these arrests, 2,479 individuals were prosecuted and 1,274 were subsequently convicted in court.
The MACC also recorded significant financial enforcement outcomes, including the seizure of RM3.54 billion in assets and the forfeiture of an additional RM27.87 billion. – Bernama
