MACC chief puzzled by claims they only go after 'ikan bilis'

Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief Dzulkifli Ahmad expressed puzzlement over accusations that the graft busters had only gone after low-ranking officers, described as "ikan bilis" (anchovies), but ignored the "sharks and whales".

"Some times I don't understand when people talk about 'ikan bilis', sharks and whales.

"If the action MACC had taken against those with the title of 'tan sri', 'datuk seri' and 'datuk', who are not 'whales and sharks', I don't know what 'whales and sharks' are supposed to be," he said during an interview on TV3's Soal Jawab programme last night.

Dzulkifli said MACC's track record has proven that it acted against everyone.

However, he stressed that the action must be based on sufficient evidence.

Dzulkifli also addressed criticism that some of those that the commission investigated were eventually let off.

"The MACC's role is to investigate. I have instructed my officers that when they open an investigation paper, they must complete it.

"Then the investigation is sent to the Attorney-General's Chambers. It is up to the AG's Chambers to decide whether there is sufficient evidence for the prosecution," he said.

Dzulkifli was also asked on whether MACC should be granted prosecutorial powers, which he did not appear to be in favour.

The MACC chief said that the separation of investigative powers and prosecutorial power was in the interest and check and balance.

"The current system is very good and a majority of countries practice it," he said.

However, he expressed hope that there will be bipartisan support to make the MACC a proper commission, which he said is only true in name, for now. - Mkini