“Azam Emphasizes Albert and Chegubard Are Not Whistleblowers, Clarifies Their Roles”

‘Not Whistleblowers’: Azam Clarifies Roles of Albert and Chegubard

KUALA LUMPUR — Tan Sri Azam Baki has emphasized that businessman Albert Tei and political activist Chegubard should not be considered whistleblowers, distinguishing their roles in recent controversies surrounding investigations by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Azam explained that both individuals provided information to authorities, but their involvement did not meet the formal definition of whistleblowing under Malaysian law.

“Albert Tei and Chegubard are not whistleblowers. While they offered information, their actions do not fall under the protections or responsibilities afforded to whistleblowers,” said Azam.

He added that the clarification was necessary to prevent public misconceptions, noting that labeling individuals as whistleblowers carries legal and reputational implications.

Azam also stressed that MACC treats all reports of misconduct seriously, regardless of who submits them. “Our focus remains on the facts and the integrity of the investigation, not the title of the person providing the information,” he said.

Albert Tei, a businessman, recently filed a civil suit against MACC, alleging procedural issues during his investigation. Meanwhile, Chegubard has been active in highlighting alleged corruption cases in public forums, drawing attention from both the media and civil society.

While both men have been vocal in bringing issues to light, Azam reiterated that their roles should be viewed within the proper legal framework. “Providing information does not automatically confer the status of a whistleblower,” he said.

The clarification comes amid broader discussions on whistleblower protections and transparency in Malaysia, with civil society groups urging clear guidelines on the rights and responsibilities of individuals who report corruption.