MACC probing Sabah graft whistleblower

MACC chief Azam Baki says the whistleblower has refused to hand over the relevant evidence to the anti-graft agency.

(FMT) – The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is investigating the purported whistleblower who allegedly has information related to corrupt practices involving several Sabah assemblymen regarding prospecting licence approvals.

MACC chief Azam Baki stated that the purported whistleblower, despite providing a statement to the anti-graft agency, has declined to submit the evidence in his possession.

“I want to say it here again. We can’t protect him as long as he does not divulge (the evidence) he has,” Azam told reporters at the international anti-corruption day 2024 celebration here.

“I can’t assure him of any protection until he gives us all the evidence. He has given it to all of you (media), but not to the MACC.”

Azam said MACC has also recorded 15 statements, including from the eight assemblymen involved in the videos.

Last month, an NGO filed a report with the MACC urging the agency to investigate a whistleblower who allegedly has information related to corrupt practices involving several Sabah assemblymen regarding prospecting licence approvals.

Gerakan Kuasa Rakyat Malaysia (G57) chairman Zulkarnain Mahdar said the report was filed as the whistleblower had failed to make an official complaint to MACC and instead had gone public with his claims via a series of videos.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had previously denied any cover-up in MACC’s investigation into the case.

Sabah chief minister Hajiji Noor said his Gabungan Rakyat Sabah-led state government would assist in the MACC’s probe.