ATTORNEY-GENERAL Idrus Harun must explain the logic behind the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the Securities Council (SC) investigating each other for conflict of interests in their respective agencies, Puchong MP Gobind Singh Deo said today.

“The AG must state whether there is a conflict or the possibility of an investigation to be compromised, or seen as compromised in such circumstances,” he said in a statement, referring to reports on January 6 that the SC would be in contact with MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki regarding use of his Bursa Malaysia central depository system account.

Then on January 11, it was reported that the MACC had received a complaint members of the SC’s higher management and board of directors.

“It seems as if SC and MACC are investigating individuals in the institution at this point,” said the DAP leader.

He also noted that Azam continued in his role as chief commissioner, and as such he was responsible for the instruction, control and supervision of all matters related to the SC.

“Does the AG think that an investigation in such a situation is reasonable and convincing?

“He must also accept that if a case is brought to the court as a result of this investigation, issues related to conflict and compromise may also arise that may have an impact on the trial.

“The AG must speak up and explain this. Is this normal and if not, what has he done to deal with it?”

Azam has come under fire after a journalist revealed share dealings made with his account, which he later claimed were bought by his brother.

Azam’s defence of the transactions led to the SC announcing a probe, which in turn sparked claims the regulator’s top bosses were also involved in questionable dealings.

The Malaysian Insight reported today that the MACC and SC’s posturing was further eroding trust in the government.

Observers have repeatedly demanded the people involved should go on leave until independent investigations are complete. – January 16, 2022.