The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has recorded statements from five witnesses, including a Sabah politician, over corruption allegations against a state assemblyman.
This follows the circulation of videos alleging misconduct in awarding state projects.
Addressing criticism, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki stated that the videos are not viable as evidence.
“We had sent the video to MACC’s forensics division.
“Their report shows that eight videos on the portal are not usable as they have been edited and lack credibility, making them inadmissible for investigations or in court,” he said.
Azam noted that the whistleblower who released the videos has not provided further evidence to substantiate the claims.
He also emphasised that the MACC respects press freedom and has no plans to summon the portal that published the videos.
Previously, Azam confirmed that the MACC was investigating two cases—one involving the whistleblower and another concerning state assembly members.
The commission had earlier stated that the assemblymen were summoned over graft allegations involving a businessman linked to the procurement of mineral projects in the state.
The MACC has urged the public to refrain from speculation and allow the authorities to conduct a transparent and thorough investigation.
On 5 February, the whistleblower’s lawyer, Shafee Abdullah, revealed that his client possesses over half a dozen additional videos and further WhatsApp message screenshots.
Former MACC Chief Commissioner Latheefa Koya had previously stated that videos published by Malaysiakini provided “clear evidence” of corruption, meeting the definition of “gratification” under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009.