The MACC has warned those being questioned by the commission to refrain from making media statements on any case under investigation.

MACC Chief Commissioner Dzulkifli Ahmad said it had become the trend for individuals involved in MACC investigations to go to the media to talk about the facts of the case.

Speaking to reporters after an event to raise the MACC flag at its new building in Presint 7 in Putrajaya yesterday, he said comments about the facts of a case would disrupt the MACC investigations.

“The MACC does not want a trial-by-media. If there is a statement (to be made), come to the MACC, or be patient. The said person will not know whether he is on the list of witnesses or maybe, even a suspect.

“Why be so impatient that you want to give a statement to the media?” he asked.

Dzulkifli said those who made statements to the media were committing an offence under Section 48(h) of the MACC Act 2009, which provides that any person who disturbs, frightens, threatens or runs off with, or tries to disturb, threaten, or run off with any person involved in an investigation can be fined up to RM10,000 or jailed two years.

He warned of stern action against those making remarks which were seditious or meant to bring down the good name of the MACC.

“The MACC will not remain silent but take legal action against those who make seditious statements or insult its image,” he said, adding that the MACC conducted its operations without any vested interest, other than to preserve the country from corruption and abuse of power.

On the MACC operations in the new building, Dzulkifli said the commission would operate fully in the premises by Sept 1.

-- Bernama