New MACC chief right man for the job, says Anwar

 The prime minister says Abdul Halim Aman's background in judiciary, and his non-involvement in business or political activities make him the ideal choice.

Abdul Halim Aman, who was named the new MACC chief to succeed Azam Baki, will assume the position on May 13.

BUKIT MERTAJAM:

 Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has described former High Court judge Abdul Halim Aman as suitable to lead the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, citing his background in the judiciary and lack of political or business ties.

He also expressed appreciation for outgoing chief Azam Baki, saying he had carried out his duties “as best as possible”.

“Now it is the turn of the new chief, and it is still too early to give a full assessment. He (Halim) is from the judiciary and is not involved in any major business or political party.

“So, I think he is suitable to lead MACC and continue enhancing its capabilities,” he told reporters after launching a Nadi Kubang Semang in Yayasan Aman here.

Halim, 69, will succeed Azam, whose tenure ends on May 12 after three consecutive one-year extensions since his appointment in March 2020.

He brings more than two decades of judicial experience, beginning as a judicial commissioner in 2005, serving in Temerloh and Kuantan before being elevated to the High Court in 2007. He later served in Penang, Johor Bahru and Shah Alam before retiring in 2023.

Separately, DAP national chairman Gobind Singh Deo has urged Halim to prioritise restoring public confidence in MACC when he assumes office on May 13.

Gobind, who is also the digital minister, said the incoming chief must outline a clear reform roadmap to safeguard the anti-graft agency’s independence and prevent abuses of power.

He said this includes addressing allegations of MACC manipulating corporate takeovers and the shareholding controversy involving Azam.

“These serious claims impact MACC’s integrity and credibility. They must be addressed without fear, favour, or delay, with clear timelines set for the completion of this process,” he said in a statement.

On the shareholding issue, the Damansara MP said it remained unresolved despite Cabinet instructions issued more than a month ago.

He said the delay could not continue indefinitely and urged for the matter to be finalised promptly.

Gobind added that the initial steps taken by Halim would set the tone for his leadership, stressing that accountability and transparency were key to restoring trust in MACC. - FMT