PETALING JAYA: G25 has joined calls to strengthen and reconstitute the task force formed to investigate the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
The group of eminent Malays, in a statement, expressed strong support for the appointment of a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) into the matter.
G25 questioned whether a task force without statutory investigative powers is sufficient. The group noted that, unlike an RCI, a task force lacks the legal authority to compel the attendance of witnesses or the production of documents. It said an inquiry mechanism with full investigative powers is necessary to ensure evidence is properly examined.
The group also said the committee composition and mandate must be enhanced to ensure independence and public trust. G25 noted that controversy surrounding the MACC leadership has intensified, with allegations expanding from share ownership to claims that the agency operated like a "corporate mafia".
G25 proposed expanding the task force to five members. It supported the proposal to appoint former Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat as chair, citing her judicial experience and independence. The group also suggested including a respected representative from civil society as a member.
Furthermore, G25 said the terms of reference should be revised to encompass wider allegations beyond technical questions of shareholding. It added that MACC chief Tan Sri Azam Baki should be placed on garden leave pending the completion of the investigation to protect the integrity of the process.
The group explained that garden leave is a safeguard for institutional credibility rather than a presumption of wrongdoing. It called for similar measures for any other MACC officer tied to the allegations. A special committee led by Attorney General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar was established in mid-Feb to investigate the controversy.
