Loke Urges Royal Inquiry Into MACC ‘Agency for Hire’ Allegations

KUALA LUMPUR – Transport Minister Anthony Loke has urged the government to establish a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) into allegations that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) acted as an “agency for hire” in corporate boardroom battles. Loke said he will table the proposal at the Cabinet meeting on Feb 27, arguing that a special task force formed earlier this month is insufficient as it only probes MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki’s shareholding breach.

Bloomberg reports alleged that MACC officers colluded with businessmen in a “corporate mafia” scheme to force corporate takeovers, sparking public outrage. Loke, who is also Democratic Action Party (DAP) secretary-general, stressed that the government’s response has been inadequate and does not meet public expectations. His call is seen as rare, placing institutional credibility above Cabinet solidarity.

Royal Inquiry Into MACC

Political analysts noted the move reinforces DAP’s reformist credentials ahead of its July 2026 party congress, which will decide whether the party continues serving in Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s Cabinet. Critics argue Anwar has yet to take a clear stance on the allegations, while civil society groups have demanded an independent inquiry led by respected figures such as former chief justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat.

Azam has denied wrongdoing and filed a RM100 million defamation suit against Bloomberg. However, pressure is mounting, with DAP lawmakers warning that failure to act could cost the government voter support in the next general election.

Business News