Report: Pas applauds Azam Baki's courage but we didn't say he was innocent, says Takiyuddin

SHAH ALAM -- Despite Pas praising the "courageous" attitude of Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki to explain himself, it does not mean that the Islamist party express that he was not guilty, said party secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan.

Clarifying Pas' stance, Takiyuddin told Astro Awani that the party was not jumping to Azam's defence but merely stressing that the MACC chief acted appropriately by clarifying himself openly.

"I mean, as the SU (secretary-general of Pas) we are not saying he is guilty or not guilty ... that is the important thing.

"The important thing is that we are satisfied that he is brave enough to come forward to explain the allegations against him ... that's all, we didn't say he was innocent ... we never said he was guilty ... as long he is yet to be proven guilty," he said.

Previously Pas issued a statement stating their support for Azam following the latter's special press conference on January 5 to explain the allegations of stock ownerships.

However, Takiyuddin pointed out that Azam's statement will be investigated by the relevant authorities.

Takiyuddin also stressed that Pas' stance has been clear that every individual is innocent until proven guilty through legal means.

"The courageous attitude to step forward is commendable, similar to the Malay proverb of berani kerana benar (do right and fear no man).,'' he said.