KUALA LUMPUR – The Bar Council is finalising the submission of two formal complaints to the Lawyers and Advocates Disciplinary Board following allegations of corruption involving law firms in recent cases related to bank loan financing.
Bar Council President Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab told Scoop that the council is currently reviewing the final details of the complaints before submission.
“The enforcement agencies have been very cooperative, and we hope to complete the documentation as soon as possible,” he said.
Asked whether both complaints concern the same law firm, Mohamad Ezri declined to provide further details at this time.
Last Friday, the Bar Council issued a statement confirming its intention to file disciplinary complaints against any lawyer or law firm involved in corruption related to bank loan financing.
Mohamad Ezri added that the Bar Council is aware of recent media reports about several bank officers charged for allegedly accepting bribes from a law firm.
“This is a very serious matter as it undermines public trust, not only in financial institutions but also in the integrity of the legal profession,” he said.
“The Malaysian Bar strongly condemns all forms of corruption. Integrity and independence are fundamental pillars of the legal profession, and any behaviour that compromises these values cannot be tolerated.”
Earlier reports indicated that 10 current and former bank officers are facing charges at the Shah Alam Sessions Court for accepting bribes from several law firms in return for recommending them as housing loan document providers.
The charges, made under Section 16(a)(A) and Section 25(1) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009, carry penalties of up to 20 years in prison and fines of five times the value of the bribe or RM10,000, whichever is higher, upon conviction.
The Bar Council reiterated its commitment to defending the dignity of the legal profession and preserving public confidence in the administration of justice.
“We extend our appreciation to the enforcement agencies for handling this matter with the seriousness it deserves,” Mohamad Ezri said. “Their decisive actions send a clear message that corruption will not be tolerated, and all parties involved must be held accountable.
“We will continue to take firm and responsible action to uphold the legal profession and the values it represents.” – November 24, 2025