MACC keeps options open on former officer’s remand, says Azam Baki

MACC keeps options open on former officer’s remand, says Azam Baki

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has yet to decide whether it will seek an extension of the remand period for a former administrative and diplomatic officer currently under investigation, according to MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki.

Azam said investigators are still assessing the progress of the probe and weighing whether additional detention time is genuinely required to facilitate further inquiries.

He noted that applications to extend remand are not routine and are only pursued when investigators determine that continued custody is necessary for specific investigative purposes.

“An extension is considered based on the actual needs of the investigation. We look at the level of cooperation, the status of evidence gathering and whether there are outstanding matters that cannot be resolved within the existing remand period,” he said.

Azam added that the case involves several lines of inquiry that are still being examined, including the review of documents and the recording of statements from relevant parties.

He stressed that MACC is mindful of the need to balance effective enforcement with respect for legal safeguards, and that no individual would be held longer than required purely as a matter of procedure.

“Our objective is not prolonged detention. The priority is to establish the facts clearly and fairly, in accordance with the law,” he said.

Responding to public speculation, Azam urged restraint and cautioned against drawing conclusions while investigations are ongoing and no final determination has been made.

He also emphasised that a person’s former senior position in the civil service does not place them beyond scrutiny, while at the same time affirming that due process applies equally to all individuals under investigation.

“Status does not exempt anyone from investigation, but it also does not diminish their rights. Our approach is evidence-based, not position-based,” he said.

Azam said MACC would provide updates through official channels once a decision is reached and as the investigation progresses.