Full Breakdown
Malaysian Minister Calls for Royal Inquiry into MACC Allegations
2/24/2026, 11:47:07 PM
Escalation of Allegations Against MACC
Transport Minister Anthony Loke has called for a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to investigate allegations that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) acted as an “agency for hire” in corporate boardroom conflicts. This proposal will be tabled at the Cabinet meeting on February 27, 2026. Loke's call follows a Cabinet decision on February 13 to form a special task force led by Attorney-General Dusuki Mokhtar to investigate related controversies, which Loke argues is insufficient as it only addresses MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki's alleged breach of shareholding limits, not the broader claims of collusion with businessmen in a "corporate mafia" scheme.
Background of the Controversy
The controversy gained traction following two reports by Bloomberg on February 10 and 11, which alleged that Azam had exceeded civil service shareholding limits and that MACC officials were involved in colluding with businessmen to orchestrate corporate takeovers. In response, Azam has denied the allegations and filed a RM100 million defamation suit against Bloomberg. The special task force formed by the Cabinet has faced criticism for lacking independence, prompting calls from civil society and lawmakers for a more credible investigation led by a respected figure, such as former chief justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat.
Political Implications and Responses
Loke's public call for an RCI is seen as a significant political maneuver, potentially creating tension within Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's Cabinet. Political analysts suggest that this move reinforces the Democratic Action Party's (DAP) commitment to reform and addresses growing dissatisfaction among its grassroots over unfulfilled promises and government scandals. Loke's stance is particularly notable as it breaks ranks with Anwar, who has defended Azam and has not publicly commented on the broader allegations of collusion.
In parliamentary discussions, DAP backbencher Khoo Poay Tiong has called for Azam's resignation or suspension pending investigation, warning that failure to act could lead to voter backlash in the upcoming general elections, scheduled for February 2028. Additionally, eight lawmakers from Anwar's Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) have echoed similar sentiments, urging for Azam's suspension.
Official Statements and Responses
The MACC has strongly denied the existence of any "corporate mafia" linked to its operations, attributing the allegations to an unverified online source. The agency stated that it is cooperating with police investigations into the claims. Prime Minister Anwar has defended Azam, asserting that there is no basis for his removal, while remaining silent on the allegations of collusion.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
There is a notable discrepancy in the responses to the allegations. While Loke and other lawmakers advocate for an RCI and express dissatisfaction with the government's handling of the situation, Anwar has not taken a definitive stance on the allegations of collusion. This divergence raises questions about the Cabinet's unity and the potential implications for governance and public trust in Malaysian institutions.
Verbatim Quotes
“To be frank, I feel the government’s response has been inadequate and does not meet public expectations,” — Anthony Loke, Transport Minister
“Azam must resign. He has to go. Either he goes, or we go,” — Khoo Poay Tiong, DAP Backbencher
“Nobody would have confidence in the Malaysian stock market if MACC officers were involved in a corporate mafia, which is a commercial crime.” — Hassan Karim, PKR Backbencher
