MACC receives alleged 'political patronage' online gambling report, works with cops for probe

SERDANG - The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) confirmed that it has received a report related to allegations of 'political patronage' that allegedly protects online gambling platform operators in the country.

MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said the agency has received specific reports and information concerning this matter.

"We are also cooperating with the police to investigate these allegations," he said during a press conference.

On Friday, it was reported that the cops had received information indicating political involvement in online gambling.

Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani is reported to have said that the police and MACC are collaborating by sharing investigation information to verify the allegations and carry out additional probe into the matter.

On Thursday, Sinar Harian reported that Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution revealed the existence of 'political patronage' system that protects online gambling platform operators in the country.

Saifuddin said that this is the biggest obstacle faced by his ministry, police and the government to combat the spread of activities.

Saifuddin added immediate amendments to the Open Gambling House Act 1953 and the Betting Act 1953 are necessary to effectively prosecute the platform operators involved in such activities.

Meanwhile, Azam said MACC is still investigating reports on allegations that a political party received funds from gambling companies for their campaign in the 15th general election (GE15).

However, he said he is unable to disclose the name of the political party involved but confirmed that an investigation has been initiated following the complaints received.

"I can confirm that the MACC is investigating reports received regarding a political party allegedly funded by a gambling company," he said.

Previously, Law and Institutional Reform Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said pointed that MACC has not been able to prove the allegation that Perikatan Nasional (PN) received funds from gambling companies to campaign in GE15, but the investigation into the case is still open.

On Telekom Malaysia Berhad (Telekom) issuing a letter to request permission to hold direct negotiations with Opcom Sdn Bhd (Opcom) for supply of fiber optic cables worth RM214.2 million, Azam said MACC will investigate the allegation.

Azam said if there are credible information and complaints related to corruption offences, MACC has a legal basis to carry out an investigation.