PUTRAJAYA: After four decades in public service, outgoing Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief Tan Sri Azam Baki turned emotional during his farewell speech.
He teared up when he spoke about the sacrifices made by his family throughout his career.
“My family members are my strongest supporters.
“They have had to face many challenges and hardships they should never have had to endure,” Azam said during his farewell and clocking-out ceremony at the MACC headquarters here yesterday.
He added that he always reminded his family not to worry too much because “this world is not meant to burden us but to be managed wisely”.
After six years at the helm of the anti-graft agency, Azam said the commission’s achievements and successes were the result of the collective efforts of all its personnel and not due to any single individual.
He credited the strong spirit of togetherness among MACC officers as a key factor in helping the commission navigate various challenges, including changes in the crime landscape.
Azam urged MACC officers and personnel to give their full support and cooperation to the incoming chief commissioner to ensure the organisation remains strong and relevant.
“Loyalty and cooperation with the incoming leadership are crucial for the stability of the organisation.
“If officers do not cooperate with the new leadership, it means they are sabotaging the organisation itself.
“In any organisation, we must remain loyal to the leadership,” he said.
Reflecting on his years in service, Azam said officers must continue serving the people, regardless of who leads the organisation.
“We remain here as officers who serve the rakyat and the nation,” he added.
Azam stressed that the most important task is to ensure the anti-graft agency continues the legacy established by its previous leaders.
“This organisation must remain relevant as envisioned by the previous leadership.
“I am only continuing the legacy for the sake of the country and the people,” he said.
Azam also expressed his gratitude to the organising committee and MACC officers for the heartfelt farewell ceremony in conjunction with his 42 years of service in the public sector.
“I am very touched and deeply moved by the support shown by my officers in accompanying me on my retirement at the age of 63,” he said.
Azam began his career with the Anti-Corruption Agency – the predecessor to MACC – before rising through the ranks to lead the commission.
He described his four-decade journey as one filled with invaluable experience and challenges.
“I will continue working and serving the people for as long as I have the energy.
“I will also try to contribute based on my experience in promoting good governance and integrity wherever needed,” Azam said.
