Transparency International Malaysia (TI-M) flags a troubling shift towards settling major corruption cases with cash deals over court trials.
The group spotlighted a fresh instance. The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission reclaimed RM900 million in unpaid taxes from a company—RM600 million penalty plus RM300 million compound—sans criminal charges.
Settlements Erode Public Confidence
Such approaches dent trust, sap deterrence, and tarnish enforcement and justice bodies.
TI-M recognises asset recovery refills public coffers. Yet it cannot stand in for true accountability.
The NGO cautions against “pragmatic” excuses or proof hurdles. They signal the rich and linked can sidestep charges.
Risk of Pay-to-Settle Norm
Unchecked, this breeds a pay-and-escape habit that gnaws at rule of law.
MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki noted a police probe uncovered the firm’s tax shortfalls. It settled the RM600 million penalty and RM300 million fine.
He held back the company name despite success.
Push for Urgent Reforms
TI-M demands changes like naming those in big recoveries and set guidelines for compounds and seizures.
Financial deals must not cap corruption probes in Malaysia. No one stands above the law.
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