KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Watch (MCW) has urged the placement of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) under the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's office.
MCW president Jais Abdul Karim said entrusting the organisation to the care of the King would yield positive outcomes and dispel allegations that MACC is used as a political tool in victimising the opposition parties.
"This approach will enhance MACC's independence, making it more transparent and ultimately contributing to the future improvement of the country's Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI)," he said in a statement today.
Jaid said the then government, in July 2018, announced the placement of nine government agencies, including MACC, the Election Commission (EC), and the National Audit Department, directly under Parliament.
"The announcement was made as part of a major restructuring initiative at the Prime Minister's Office.
"However, it is evident that this restructuring did not occur," Jais said.
In addition, MCW proposed that appointing agency leaders should be subject to interviews and selection by Members of Parliament (MPs) through a special process with the YDPA's consent or be placed directly under his authority.
MCW suggested that MACC should be granted full autonomy, especially in financial matters, as well as the appointment or removal of the Chief Commissioner or officers.
"This involves recognising MACC as a separate constitutional body under the King,"
Jais said, while calling that would undoubtedly involve making amendments to the country's constitution.
MCW believed these proposals are expected to build public confidence in MACC, with a strong emphasis on maintaining the integrity of "the Rule of Law."
