KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is ready to launch investigations against any of its officers who leaked information either to the media or any quarters.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reforms) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman, however said based on MACC records, there was no police report lodged on the matter since the claims are too general.
"Many quarters will be involved in the investigation process be it in the capacity of as a suspect, the courts, lawyers as well as reporters when the remand process is being made.
"MACC investigations conducted at any premises will generate public attention (interest).
"As such, many quarters related to the investigations that are being conducted have knowledge of the matter.
"Therefore, it is a bit difficult to confirm or accuse any quarters of their alleged involvement in the leakage of information regarding an ongoing investigation," she said in a written reply in the Dewan Rakyat published on the Parliament's website.
Azalina was responding to a question by Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan (PN - Tasek Gelugor) who asked the Prime Minister to explain action by the government on information being leaked to the media by 'sources' which usually happens with the MACC investigation.
Such a matter, said the Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia leader, raised concerns and issues related to the commission's level of intergrity.
Azalina added that MACC would always control all information related to an investigation.
"This is to avoid the information from reaching quarters who are not related to the investigation, and avoid the matter from affecting an on-going investigation," Azalina said.
She said any non-criminal offences involving MACC officers would be referred to the Complaint Committee which was formed under Section 15 of the MACC Act.
"A report with the police will be lodged against MACC officers for their alleged involvement in criminal-related offences.
"As for corruption-related offences or abuse of power and embezzlement involving MACC officers, the matter will be investigated by MACC since it falls under the prerogative of the commission," she said.
