KUALA LUMPUR, 11 Dec 2008: Transparency International Malaysia (TI-M) today voiced its hope that the passing of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Bill and the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) bill will give the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) greater powers to prosecute and investigate all cases.
Its president, Tan Sri Ramon Navaratnam, in a statement, applauded Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi for granting more independent powers to MACC to deal with all cases without having to consult the Attorney-General’s office and being influenced by politics.
The tabling of the two bills by Abdullah at the Dewan Rakyat yesterday was most welcomed and was long awaited by TI-M which was delighted that Abdullah had kept his promise.
“TI-M also stresses that it is important to have people with the highest integrity and a proven track record to sit on the commission.
“All processes with regards to the MACC and four other committees must be just and transparent as this will ensure the rakyat’s faith and confidence in the system,” he added.
Navaratnam also welcomed the provisions in the law for full anonymity to whistleblowers although he regretted that those lodging false reports would be liable to a 10-year jail sentence and fined up to RM100,000.
“This punitive action will seriously discourage potential whistleblowers. The Complaints Committee must take it upon itself to ensure that whistleblowers are protected against the abuse of allegations that they are making false reports,” he said.
He also stressed that the fines should be reduced and amendments made during the second reading at the Parliament stage. — Bernama
