The MACC’s silence on Kalimullah Hassan’s dubious wealth and activities is striking. In a country where the commission is praised for its crackdown on corruption, its indifference towards figures like Hassan and Yakcop is both conspicuous and troubling.
In the complex landscape of Malaysian politics, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has gained notoriety for its aggressive actions against opponents of the current government. However, there remains a glaring oversight that raises questions about the integrity of the commission: the untouched cronies of the Pak Lah era, notably figures like Kalimullah Hassan and Nor Mohamed Yakcop.
Kalimullah Hassan: Unexplained Wealth
Kalimullah Hassan, once a humble newspaperman, has transformed into a magnate with significant holdings in banks, investment companies, and hotels. His claim that his immense wealth stems from early savings is seen by many as implausible and insulting to the intelligence of the Malaysian public.
Nor Mohamed Yakcop: The Finance Architect
Nor Mohamed Yakcop, the former Finance Minister II, played a crucial role during Pak Lah’s administration. His tenure, however, was marred by allegations of financial mismanagement and corruption, including involvement in the Bank Negara forex scandal. His questionable financial decisions have led to suspicions about the sources of his wealth and the integrity of his financial dealings.
The Deafening Silence of MACC
The MACC’s silence on Kalimullah Hassan’s dubious wealth and activities is striking. In a country where the commission is praised for its crackdown on corruption, its indifference towards figures like Hassan and Yakcop is both conspicuous and troubling. This selective pursuit undermines the commission’s credibility and perpetuates a culture of impunity among the elite.
The Call for Fairness
For the MACC to regain public trust, it must demonstrate impartiality and thoroughness in its investigations. The law must be applied equally, regardless of an individual’s political connections or financial status. Until figures like Kalimullah Hassan and Nor Mohamed Yakcop are held accountable, the perception of the MACC as a tool for political vendettas will persist, eroding confidence in its mandate to uphold justice.
A Compelling Investigation
The time is ripe for the MACC to extend its reach beyond the convenient targets of the current regime and scrutinize the cronies of past administrations. If the MACC is truly committed to eradicating corruption, it must demonstrate its resolve by holding all individuals accountable, irrespective of their political affiliations or financial influence.
The eyes of the nation are watching. Will the MACC rise to the occasion and prove its dedication to justice, or will it continue to shield the privileged few from the long arm of the law?
By- Hamdan Raziman
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