I’ve given Azam Baki my advice – Rais

Tan Sri Rais Yatim said he has advised Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki following the controversy surrounding the latter’s share ownership issue.

Rais, who is the Parliamentary Special Committee on Corruption (SCC) chairman, said this was done when Azam paid him a visit recently.

“He came to see me to exchange views and I have given him my advice. It is up to him to decide on the next course of action.

“I cannot divulge anymore,” Rais said.

PKR Youth wants Azam Baki to step down
Rais was speaking to reporters after being awarded an honorary doctorate in creative arts (cultural arts planner) by the National Arts Culture and Heritage Academy (Aswara) in Jalan Tun Ismail.

Without specifying the details or when and where the meeting took place, Rais said Azam was aware of the regulations and laws of the country.

“He has to adhere to it (the laws of the country) and cannot run away from it, just like anybody else.

“It is now up to the relevant agencies (like the police, MACC, Public Services Commission (PSC) or others to carry out their investigation and take the next course of action,” said Rais, who is also Dewan Negara president.

He added that Azam ought to face the committee to explain himself if subpoenaed.

“I have also advised him to attend if called upon.

“He has to deliberate on it at length and if he fails to do so, the committee can decide accordingly,” said Rais.

Asked if any PSC proceeding could be held openly in public, Rais said it was up to PSC chairman Abdul Latiff Rahman to decide.

He also said that it was better for the investigation to be carried out expeditiously as MACC was the foremost anti-graft agency.

Rais called on the authorities to employ a clear and strict anti-corruption stance like that of China and other countries.

‘Even Indonesia has stepped up on anti-corruption measures. Hence, Malaysia must take stock and be firm, too,” he said.

Last Friday, Rais had told Azam that he should go on leave until a full investigation can be carried out over the scandal.

Rais said while the SCC was of the view that the MACC chief should be placed on temporary leave, the PSC has the final say on the matter.

Rais had said that it was a general practice that when an officer is investigated for any malpractice or misconduct, he or she would be suspended.

But in Azam’s case, Rais said there were various views that pointed towards the fact that Azam’s purchase of extensive stocks was not a criminal act, but might just be a misconduct or failure to comply with his role. Nst

I’ve given Azam Baki my advice – Rais

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