Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has defended the MACC over criticisms related to its handling of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption in Sabah, stressing that due process must be upheld.
Speaking at the state-level Kaamatan Festival launch in Penampang, Anwar, for the first time, addressed growing dissatisfaction over claims of inaction by the anti-graft agency since the release of the videos purportedly exposing corrupt practices involving mineral exploration licences.
“I want to be frank. What’s the point of coming here and delivering sweet talk - I want to be frank. What is the strongest criticism here?
“It’s about the circulation of a video that was not investigated by the MACC, a federal agency.
“Of course, I didn’t interfere initially, but when the issue gained traction, I asked MACC for their view - ‘What’s this about these videos?’
“The allegation is that we are covering it up, that’s a perception - raised especially in urban areas - as though there’s an effort to cover up acts of corruption and wrongdoing,” he added.
On May 24, the Sabah Mining Operators Association (PPGS) urged the government to grant whistleblower protection to a member identified only as “Albert”, who exposed the alleged scandal.
The group cited past high-profile incidents involving whistleblowers, including the abduction of Pamela Ling and the death of Teoh Beng Hock - both were linked to investigations implicating powerful individuals.
‘No protection for whistleblower’
Anwar, in his speech today, reiterated that no protection will be provided for the whistleblower who had also admitted to offering alleged bribes to the state leaders.
Albert had lodged a police report earlier this month, citing fears for his safety and referencing Ling’s case to justify the need for protection.
However, Anwar cautioned against politicising the issue or resorting to baseless claims.
“This country is governed by the rule of law, not by perception, accusations, or slander. It must be tackled through values, principles, and firm legal action,” he said.
He explained that the MACC had briefed him on the status of the videos, noting that initial clips submitted were fragmented and inadmissible in court, especially in an era where artificial intelligence could compromise video authenticity.
“MACC’s official response was that such fragmented videos can be investigated, but cannot be used to prosecute. No court will accept these video snippets, especially now, with AI.
“They said the video is being investigated, but they cannot proceed without proper testimony.
“The individual who made the allegations only gave part of a statement, spoke a little with the opposition, and stirred the issue,” said Anwar.
He added that a more complete version of the video had recently been handed over to the MACC, which has since sent the material for forensic analysis to determine its authenticity.
On April 29, Albert reportedly submitted a mobile phone containing WhatsApp messages and close to 300 pages of related documents to the MACC.
Earlier the same day, MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki said forensic analysis on 10 video clips implicating Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji Noor and several assemblypersons - submitted in March - was expected to be completed the following week.
‘Not a dictator PM’
Anwar also addressed public pressure for him to take direct action, asserting that his role must remain within legal boundaries.
“I don’t want to hold office to protect anyone. Some say the prime minister must act, that I’m not firm, that I talk about being anti-corruption, but allow it.
“This prime minister is not a dictator. I follow the law. I must go through the process. I cannot just arrest people arbitrarily.
“Investigation is MACC or the police’s job, prosecution is the attorney-general’s job, and sentencing is the judge’s job. The prime minister must ensure the system functions properly.
“The PM doesn’t investigate, prosecute, or sentence. That’s called a dictator. We’ve been through that before - don’t ask me to repeat that system,” he added. - Mkini
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