MACC calls for new laws to prevent misuse of public funds

 MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki says there is currently no standalone legislation specifically governing the misuse of public funds.

MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki said loopholes in the law currently allow public funds to be misappropriated.

PETALING JAYA:

 The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has called for the enactment of three new laws to prevent the misuse of public funds.

MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki noted that while Malaysia already has several laws addressing misuse of public funds, there is currently no standalone legislation specifically governing the matter, reported Berita Harian.

The first proposed law, the Public Office Misconduct Act, would make misappropriation of public funds and negligence by government officials criminal offences.

“This Act would specifically address leakages and misconduct involving funds meant for the public, as highlighted in the auditor-general’s reports,” he added.

The second proposed legislation is a welfare-related Act aimed at preventing the misuse of donations collected by NGOs.

He said a Welfare Commission should also be established to oversee the proper use of donation funds sourced from both public and corporate contributions.

Azam highlighted that public fundraising and crowdfunding activities are becoming increasingly widespread, creating opportunities for misappropriation due to a lack of transparent checks and balances.

He also noted that several NGOs involved in fundraising activities – including organisations collecting donations in the name of Palestine – have been investigated by MACC.

The third proposal is a political financing law. Azam said although a Political Financing Act has long been discussed, it has yet to be implemented by the government.

He said political donations and loans should be disclosed to prevent conflicts of interest, corruption and undue influence in politics. - FMT