MACC should show that it is fair, just, reasonable & transparent.

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) should be fair, just, reasonable and transparent in dealing with all cases of complaints about corruption.

Only when it is seen to be acting without fear and favour, can the public have full confidence in it.

On 5.8.2010, Dr Tan refers to the the statement yesterday by MACC Deputy Chief commissioner (Operations) Datuk Shukri Abdull that the Central Government has approved the hiring of additional 5,000 officers in the next five years. About half the officers will be doing investigation work, dealing with five to 10 cases each per year.

In 2008, MACC applied for 5,000 additional officers in the next five years. Only 33 additional posts were approved. Now, that the Central Government has given a nod, it should be able to get more personnel to do a better job.Hong Kong Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (ICAC) has 1 officer to 7,322 citizens. MACC has 1:15,225. With the new recruits the ratio should improve.

Hitherto, factors such as Teoh Beng Hock case and the lack of high-profile cases being charged do not help the image of MACC. With more dedicated staff members, we hope that it can present a more positive image. From about 1,000 cases MACC investigate annually, we expect it to show more efficiency.

We notice that MACC has stepped up its publicity image, the Chief Commisioner and his officers getting into the media more frequently. But, dealing with cases in fair, just, reasonable and transparent manner is very important.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw