PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has never received a call from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak on corruption cases being investigated by the commission.

Abu Kassim

Its deputy chief commissioner, Datuk Abu Kassim Mohamed, said today that since its establishment in January, the MACC was free to carry out its functions without interference.

"Alhamdulillah, I've never had that problem since the MACC was set up. As far as I know, there had been no calls at all to tell us to investigate someone or not to. It's important that we don't have to face such a problem," Abu Kassim told reporters after delivering a speech on 'The Role and Responsibilities of the Business Sector in Combating Corruption' at the Prevention of Corruption in Corporate Sector Management seminar here.

On the seminar organised by the MACC and Business Ethics Institute of Malaysia, he said it was aimed at making the private sector realise the importance of curbing corruption between the public and private sectors as well as within the private sector.

"At the same time, we are asking them (private sector) to have a clear policy -- of not getting involved with any party or agency trying to solicit bribes in any dealing.

"If they refuse to be involved in corruption, part of the problem is solved as our studies show that almost 50% of the corruption cases in this country start with the bribe-givers," he said.

Asked about public perception that the MACC is pro-government, Abu Kassim said it was not true based on the facts and data.

He said the MACC must get closer to the people and explain to them that the commission carried out investigations based on public information that must have a strong basis.

"An investigation is not conducted because we dislike an individual. The MACC does not determine who is to be investigated, as we must receive a report or complaint in order to open an investigation. So, how can we be accused of being biased?" he asked

He said the people must also understand that any report not acted upon by the MACC must be tabled before the operation evaluation panel comprising those representing society.

"If the panel is not satisfied, they will ask why the report is not investigated. So, the public must understand that we are different from the Anti-Corruption Agency (MACC's predecessor) as we have much greater transparency," he added. -- Bernama