ALLEGED bribery among several state assemblymen in Sabah is a serious matter that not only challenges the integrity of the state government but also erodes public confidence in the elected representatives.

Therefore, it becomes crucial for the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to immediately arrange and make available all protection as requested by the whistleblower as provided under the Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA) 2010 so that investigations can commence without further delay, said an MCA leader.

Its youth wing’s information chief Neow Choo Seong said considering that the alleged suspects being investigated are influential individuals that hail from business and political backgrounds with some even wielding executive power in the state government, these probes must be conducted transparently, firmly, and comprehensively, devoid of fear or favour.

“The results of the investigation should be made public, and those involved, whether the bribe giver or the bribe taker, must be brought to court to face trial,” he continued.

“This is to eradicate all forms of corrupt practices in society, in line with the aspirations of the Malaysia Madani government and all citizens.”

Meanwhile, MCA Youth secretary-general Saw Yee Fung stressed that whistleblowers should be protected by the MACC as long as they “act in good faith, with genuine intent”, adding that early protection is essential to encourage others to come forward with information.

“However, the protection should not be misused. If MACC conducts a proper background check and verifies the whistleblower’s credibility, then protection is justified and aligns with the spirit of the WPA 2010,” she stated.

“On the other hand, if a whistleblower is found to be dishonest or acting with ulterior motives, appropriate legal action should be taken.”

She further reckoned that limiting protection to only those deemed “clean” could discourage potential whistleblowers from coming forward.

“Protection should be available to anyone providing credible information, regardless of their personal background, as long as they act with integrity and not to conceal their own misconduct,” she continued.

“A fair and transparent investigative process is crucial to ensure justice and maintain the integrity of the whistleblowing system.

“Those who misuse the system must be held accountable, but the focus should remain on protecting genuine whistleblowers from retaliation.”

On Nov 9, Malaysiakini reported it had seen eight videos showing different assemblymen allegedly discussing bribes in exchange for support for a state project.

The news portal cited an unnamed source revealing that while the alleged whistleblower was willing to provide more details but wanted protection under the Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA) 2010 first.

According to Malaysiakini, the videos are believed to have been recorded earlier this year and purportedly show a businessman discussing the repayment terms for alleged bribes after a project licence was revoked.

An official letter has also been sent to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim requesting whistleblower protection and alleging the involvement of the state’s “top leader” in the corruption scandal.

The whistleblower in question has requested the MACC for a guarantee of immunity before providing all the evidence for the investigation.

However, MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki has stated this is not possible and has asked the whistleblower to lodge an official report with the MACC.

Government spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil has also called on the whistleblower to do the same. – Nov 15, 2024 

https://focusmalaysia.my/assemblymen-bribery-case-investigate-firmly-and-transparently-macc-told/