The government spokesperson stated that Putrajaya remains open to considering various views in line with its ongoing efforts to reform key national institutions.
PUTRAJAYA: The government is open to proposals to revamp the appointment process for the Chief Commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), including the Prime Minister’s discretionary powers in the matter, said Fahmi Fadzil.
The government spokesperson said this openness to consider different perspectives is part of the administration’s continuous efforts to drive institutional reforms.
“The government welcomes feedback from all parties, whether related to legislative amendments or improvements to existing processes, in order to strengthen vital institutions for the progress of the nation,” he said at a press conference after today’s Cabinet meeting.
When asked whether the government plans to extend the current term of the MACC Chief Commissioner, Azam Baki, Fahmi said the matter was not raised during the Cabinet meeting.
Yesterday, the Center to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4) stated that the end of Azam’s term presents an opportunity to democratise the appointment process.
In a statement, C4 noted that the current practice, which grants the Prime Minister discretionary power over the appointment, has faced criticism for potentially being vulnerable to political influence.
While legislative amendments to address this issue may take time, C4 suggested that the government take interim steps such as opening the process to public nominations and considering input from opposition parties and civil society groups.
Citing sources, Bloomberg reported last Friday that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is expected to grant Azam a six-month extension to lead the anti-corruption agency.
Azam, who will turn 62 this May, has previously received two one-year extensions to his term.