Stop corrupt practices or prepare to face MACC enforcement - Dzulkifli

The new Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Chief Commissioner Datuk Dzulkifli Ahmad, 48, in sounding out the warning, called on those involved in corruption to surrender voluntarily for a possible lighter sentence against them.

"Come now, I have opened this opportunity, come anytime before action is taken. If actions have been taken, there is no need to see us. For those who are feeling the heat, they can come.

"We will study and discuss with the Attorney-General's Chambers on what actions could be taken (for a lighter sentence) as the question of prosecution is under their purview," he said in an exclusive interview with Bernama at his office, here on Saturday.

Even though the overture is offered in a calm tone, the firmness of the new MACC chief is clear when he stressed that the commission would not be discriminatory in the effort to flush out corruption in the country.

Dzulkifli, who took over from Tan Sri Abu Kassim Mohamed on Aug 1, said his primary focus upon taking the helm of the commission would be to enhance the value of integrity in the public and private sectors.

He said for the commission to mean business, the warning would be translated into raids of government or private offices if there were evidence of corrupt practices.

"Wait, soon there will be friendly visits from the new MACC chief commissioner," he said.

He said after being on the MACC job for two weeks, it was enough to understand the commission and it was time to see the results of implementation.

"I'm a man with a few word. I do not talk a lot. I like to advise and warn those involved in corruption to stop immediately.