Let's welcome the new leadership

THE appointment of the new Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission chief commissioner Datuk Dzulkifli Ahmad, who replaced Tan Sri Abu Kassim Mohamed, is still the talk of the town.

Undeniably, when change involves the higher-ups in any major body, particularly a graft prevention agency, people will form perceptions.

Opinions and perceptions are common in a democratic country like Malaysia. Whatever the change, we must be prepared to welcome it.

As a civilised society, we should welcome the new leadership. The legacy left behind by the former chief is unquestionable. The same trust and chance must be given to Dzulkifli. Abu Kassim had made MACC into a world-class agency with his years of experience.
The new MACC chief is also an experienced hand. He headed the National Revenue Recovery Enforcement Team under the direct monitoring of attorney-general for a couple of years.

That area of his expertise isn’t far from what he is doing now. Thus, the spirit of continuing the legacy is not something new for him. Investigation and prosecution are often interrelated.

Let’s trust his capabilities. He just needs a little more time to get things in order in his new office.

His track record is a good example since he had huge experience in handling high-profile cases such as former Selangor Menteri Besar Khir Toyo’s misuse of power and the Port Klang Free Zone fiasco.

MACC is known for its independence and accountability in bringing forward corruption cases to the courts. The agency is also free from political ideologies and doesn’t act in favour of any party.

Preventing graft at any level in the country is its only aim ever since it was established as Badan Pencegahan Rasuah and transformed into MACC in 2009.

Now, the baton has been handed over to Dzulkifli to continue the fight against corruption.

All he needs to do is to keep up the spirit and maintain MACC’s good work and track record.

Criticisms are common for whoever holds this position. Dzulkifli should not pay attention to the critics unless they are going to join hands with him to fight graft.

Take all the challenges as a push factor and start the race now.

ProfesSor Madya
Dr Ismail Sualman, political analyst, Kuala Lumpur