'MACC needs to be given more autonomy' - Paul Low

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Paul Low said this must be done to ensure its independence and integrity is not compromised.

"I am not saying that the MACC is not independent. However, there are structural reforms that needs to be undertaken in order to give MACC more autonomy," said Low.

The reforms he meant include the appointment of the Chief Commissioner, which should be done by a panel of reputable individuals within the society.

In order for this to come to fruition, there is a need for the Federal Constituition to be amended.

"This is where the problem lies. Despite the challenges, if Members of Parliament are serious about this, we should be able to get the two third majority needed to pass the amendment," said Low during an exclusive interview with Astro AWANI at his office in Putrajaya today.

Asked if the MACC should be placed under the Parliament, Low said the suggestion could be considered.

"Bear in mind that for important posts such as this, it will be disadvantageous for it to be decided by the Parliament as it could be politicised," explained Low.

MACC's independence became an issue recently following the news of the transfer of two senior MACC officers to the Prime Minister's Department.

However, earlier today, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa confirmed the transfers have been cancelled.

The two officers are Special Operations Division director Datuk Bahri Mohamad Zin and director of its Strategic Communications Datuk Rohaizad Yaakob.