THE Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is investigating several politicians over political patronage in illegal gambling, chief commissioner Azam Baki said.

Azam however said he could not disclose details at the present time.

“I cannot disclose the politicians under investigation, but I can confirm it is ongoing.

“(And) if proven, it is indeed an offence,” Azam Baki was quoted as saying by the New Straits Times after attending World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur 2023 Integrity Day today.

On the political affiliations of those under investigation, Azam said: “I cannot disclose that either. If they are politicians, then they are politicians (Kalau ahli politik, itu ahli politik lah).”

Earlier this month, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail told parliament that political patronage was the biggest constraint preventing law enforcers from taking action against online gambling syndicates,

He said these syndicates are protected by politicians who benefit from the illegal pacts.

“There is indeed an element of political patronage over these players. 

“From this (political patronage) comes protection and influence, corruption and bribery.

“These players (syndicates) are protected, whereby information is leaked, ensuring no action is taken against them, and in return, these players repay their political masters,” he told lawmakers.

He subsequently said it was up to the police and MACC to investigate and bring the culprits to book. – June 27, 2023.