KUALA LUMPUR (July 2): Opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin is demanding clarification from the government regarding the appointment of former Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief Tan Sri Azam Baki as an adviser to the National Anti-Financial Crime Centre (NFCC).
The Larut MP said the appointment is questionable given Azam’s involvement in several controversies, including allegations linked to a “corporate mafia” and company share ownership. Azam’s role on the advisory board is listed on the NFCC website.
“I would like to ask the government: what is the justification for appointing Azam as an adviser to the NFCC when he is facing issues that are under investigation?” Hamzah said at a press conference in Parliament Thursday, calling for an official response from Putrajaya.
Azam has denied the allegations and later retired as MACC chief commissioner in May after his contract was not extended.
Civil society groups and MPs have continued to urge the government to release findings from investigations into the allegations involving Azam.
Earlier this week, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said investigations into alleged “corporate mafia” activities within enforcement agencies are still ongoing, with statements from 58 individuals showing no involvement of MACC officers.
In the same press conference, Hamzah also urged the Madani government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to be more transparent over fuel subsidy quota reductions, saying the public is questioning the basis of the policy.
He said the government should disclose the full breakdown of registered vehicles by type from the Road Transport Department (RTD), including motorcycles, cars by engine capacity and lorries, before making claims on fuel usage rates.
Hamzah added that the reduction of the quota to 200 litres is insufficient for certain groups, especially motorcyclists who use their vehicles for business.
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