MACC's appointment process outdated by 20 years, says corruption watch group
Malaysian Corruption Watch (MCW) presient Jais Abdul Karim said a large scale reform should be implemented to ensure it was up to date.
He said the system practiced in this country was outdated by 20 years.
“Many improvements should be made, among them is the independence from political influence. We are now in 2023 and we are inching closer towards 100 years of independence, but we are still using outdated methods.
Jais suggested to follow neighbouring Indonesia on the appointment of chief commissioner.
He said each candidate must be vetted by a Special Parliamentary Committee before being appointed.
“Representatives from opposition parties and the government must call the candidates to question and to ensure the decision made was based on qualifications,” he said.
He said the special committee separated from the Public Service Department (JPA) must be established to ensure the appointment of officers in MACC is done without internal influences.
“Currently, MACC officers are no different than other civil servants appointed from the JPA and the standard civil servants screening is used.
“If this special committee to appoint and dismiss officers followed certain rules I am sure MACC will be strengthened,” he said.
Malaysian Islamic Youth (Abim) Secretary-General Mohammad Fazril Mohd Salleh said the proposal to place MACC under the Parliament should be implemented as a reform to the institution.
He said it must be observed thoroughly and comprehensively before being gazetted to ensure it is not influenced by any parties.
“I think the most rational step is not to rush as there is no clear mechanism currently,” he said to Sinar.
Several parties viewed the move to place MACC under the Parliament would create a check and balance.
Fazril said political will is necessary in the effort to reform the institution.
“MACC’s concern is that it will lose its independence after being placed under the Parliament and it must be addressed with an appropriate mechanism.
“Surely MACC’s credibility would not be disputed if there were no issues arising.
"The MACC must be willing to be reformed and propose a suitable mechanism for it to be placed under the Parliament,” he said.
