JOHOR BAHRU, May 24 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has strongly defended the government’s decision to renew the contract of Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki, despite mounting criticism from opposition leaders and civil society groups.
Addressing party members at the official launch of the PKR national congress tonight, Anwar acknowledged the concerns raised but doubled down on the government’s stance, describing Azam as a key figure in the fight against entrenched corruption.
“We do not make decisions lightly. Azam Baki has demonstrated extraordinary courage and unwavering commitment in tackling high-profile corruption cases,” Anwar said to loud applause from the crowd.
The prime minister’s remarks come amid public scrutiny over Azam’s controversial tenure, which has seen both praise for high-level investigations and criticism over perceived opacity in some proceedings.
Despite calls for leadership change at the MACC, Anwar maintained that the decision to renew Azam’s contract was based on performance and not politics.
“We are committed to institutional reform, but that reform must be built on merit, not mob pressure,” he said.
Anwar’s firm defense signals his administration’s confidence in Azam’s ability to steer the MACC through a critical period, as Malaysia continues efforts to restore public trust in its anti-graft machinery.
