KUALA LUMPUR – Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh has warned that the special committee set up to investigate Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission chief Tan Sri Azam Baki’s alleged share ownership risks being seen as a “toothless tiger”.
In a statement today, the DAP national legal bureau chairman outlined four concerns that he said could undermine the credibility and effectiveness of the panel.
First, Ramkarpal said the committee does not appear to have investigative powers under the Criminal Procedure Code, such as compelling witnesses to appear or ordering the production of documents.
“In such circumstances, it is unlikely that the committee will be able to obtain information other than Azam’s own version of events,” he said, adding that it could end up issuing limited findings similar to a recent Independent Investigation Committee review into heritage football players banned by FIFA.
Second, he said the committee’s terms of reference appear confined to Azam’s alleged share ownership in two companies and do not extend to allegations reported by Bloomberg that MACC had colluded with businessmen to force takeovers of rival-owned companies.
Ramkarpal said the Bloomberg article, published on February 12, raised allegations that were “just as serious” and should also be investigated. He noted that the Cabinet met on February 13, a day after the report was published, and therefore had the opportunity to include those claims within the probe’s scope.
Third, he questioned the appointment of Attorney General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar as head of the committee, citing a potential conflict of interest.
“It would be inappropriate for the AG to recommend prosecution if wrongdoing is found, as the AG cannot investigate and prosecute at the same time,” he said, calling instead for an independent committee whose members have no interest in the outcome.
Fourth, Ramkarpal pointed out that Azam has not been directed to go on leave pending investigations, raising concerns about possible influence over the process.
Describing Bloomberg’s allegations as “very serious”, he said they must be addressed properly and transparently to avoid any perception of bias.
“In the circumstances, I call upon the government to act urgently to address the matters raised above in the interests of justice,” he said. – February 14, 2026