Aliran has released this statement. Do you agree with call to set up a royal commission of inquiry?
Aliran is encouraged to note that the government has finally grasped the gravity of the allegations that have surfaced against the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s chief commissioner and some of its officers.
These unsettling allegations have increasingly become a matter of public concern.
However, given the magnitude of the allegations that have emerged from recent Bloomberg reporting, we call for the establishment of a royal commission of inquiry rather than a task force.
While the questionable acquisition of shares by MACC Chief Commissioner Azam Baki warrants investigation, Bloomberg has made a far more serious allegation. This concerns the alleged use of MACC officers by a certain group of business people to intimidate senior officials of targeted companies with the ultimate objective of taking over these companies at suppressed valuations.
This allegation, if true, represents an existential threat to our capital markets and our credibility as an investment destination. Such alleged machinations would severely compromise the independence and integrity of the commission, whose fundamental purpose is the combating of corruption.
More critically, these allegations point to the potential capture of state institutions by a certain group. If true, this would strike at the very foundation of our regulatory framework and economic governance.
The implications extend far beyond individual misconduct. These allegations, if substantiated, would shatter our regulatory credibility and our ability to demonstrate predictable and rational economic investment behaviour in the eyes of international markets.
To ensure that investigations can be carried out effectively without any internal interference or hindrance, we call for Azam and all other implicated MACC officers (if any) to be relieved of their duties and placed on garden leave until investigations are completed.
READ MORE: Azam Baki’s retirement hints cannot distract from dire need for structural MACC reforms
The government’s plan to set up a task force that would submit a report to the cabinet is simply not enough. This would be widely perceived as merely an internal probe that lacks the credibility and public trust necessary to address allegations of this magnitude.
Only a royal commission of inquiry, with full investigative powers, independent membership and public transparency, can adequately examine these serious allegations and restore confidence in our institutions. This royal commission must comprise individuals who are independent of and not members of the current administration. Its report should be made available in the public domain for maximum transparency.
We therefore urge the government to demonstrate its commitment to accountability and institutional integrity by establishing a royal commission immediately
Beyond this immediate crisis, we call for key structural reforms to safeguard the MACC’s independence and integrity.
First, the MACC must be removed from the Prime Minister’s Department and placed under parliamentary oversight. This would eliminate potential conflicts of interest and ensure the commission operates free from executive interference.
Second, the appointment of the MACC chief commissioner must be subject to vetting and approval by a bipartisan parliamentary select committee. This would ensure transparency, accountability and broad-based confidence in the leadership of this critical institution.
These structural reforms are essential to prevent future compromises of the MACC’s integrity and to restore public trust in Malaysia’s anti-corruption framework.
Aliran executive committee
14 February 2026
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Happy Chinese New Year to all!
Heng! Ong! Huat!
Horsey!
The 2026 Year of the Horse symbolizes rapid prosperity, vitality, and strong progress, with the Lunar New Year falling on February 17. It is viewed as a year for bold, swift action—representing “success immediately” (mǎ shàng yǒu fú)—and is associated with high energy, independence, and career advancement.
The 2026 Penang Miaohui (Temple Fair) will be held on February 21, 2026 (5th Day of Chinese New Year), from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM in the George Town Heritage Zone. Themed “The Journey of Decoding” (解码之旅), this 26th edition focuses on exploring the wisdom and stories behind cultural heritage, featuring clan hall exhibitions, traditional performances, and 120+ food vendors.
Event Date: 21/02/2026, Saturday
Event Time: 4.00pm – 11.00pm
Event Venue: Heritage Precinct of George Town, Penang
GEORGE TOWN: Investors should seize economic opportunities in Penang by mid-year, when prospects are expected to peak before tapering off towards year-end, according to a prediction during the annual flame-watching ceremony at [a temple] in Bayan Lepas.
The “chneah hoay” ceremony, saw sacred flames ignited 3 times from an incense urn on the altar at intervals of about one minute, with each flame representing the outlook for a four-month period of the year.
Good news for Penang?
Still need hard work, not just pray pray. Then only luck can come!
The Chinese community, especially the Hokkien ethnic group, flooded the village of Chew Jetty, Pengkalan Weld at the Bai Ti Gong celebration in George Town, Penang, Tuesday (Feb 24) night. The Hokkien community celebrates the festival on the ninth day of the Chinese New Year. The celebration is believed to have originated from the historical story of the Ming Dynasty, when the Hokkien community in Fujian, China, survived a pirate attack after hiding in a nine-day sugar cane farm.
Step into the sensory overload of the annual Penang Miaohui (庙会)! While the incense smoke clears and the lion dancers rest, the real story of Penang begins to unfold. This year, C Kology went beyond the vibrant performances to dig deep into the roots of this UNESCO city.
This is really an attraction for foreign tourists to Singapore. My family enjoy it very much.
There are too many corruption cases lately – It all seems to be centred on one [group]. It may be a coincidence, as it is mainly with either the Government or linked companies and conglomerates. To avoid a repeat, it is time the Government commissioned a study into why this happened and whether it is because of the affirmative policies that resulted in wealth without having to work for it.
There is usually 2 groups, a giving group and a receiving one.
This issue is about 5 years old. MACC has at least 3 “advisory committees”. A member of one raised this issue. As no action was taken, he resigned.
What’s the role of the advisory committees. Please clarify. What was the issue raised?
The role is cosmetic. Monthly income counts. This is Bolehland.
We need Azam Baki to stay on as MACC Chief … Anwar and Azam Baki are dead serious in fighting corruption. People like Rafizi, Albert Tei and DAP should respect that.
A tribute to young Penangites who continue their parents’ hawker trade despite the lure of Singapore dollar to work in the red dot:
https://youtube.com/watch?v=Rs4NtGr2ZQs
Happy New Year.
“heritage fatigue” is a real threat in Penang:
Laborious Nature: Many young Penangites are deterred by the 12-hour shifts in high heat. A 2019 report by the Penang Institute noted that only about 20% of hawkers had a definitive succession plan.
Modernization: To attract younger tradespeople, there is a push for “smart kiosks” (solar-powered, better ventilation) and digitalization. The goal is to move CKT from “laborer’s food” to a “boutique culinary profession.”
[One] uncle vomitted blood. Morning fried elsewhere then continue at market, for hard earned ringgit (just count the eggs cracked up daily) at the expense of health.
Let’s be reminded not too obsessed with money elsewhere may have to check into Hotel Penang [hospital] and can never check out…..
Authentic Penang hawkers have migrated to or feature frequently in Singapore, bringing iconic dishes like Assam Laksa, Char Kway Teow, and Lor Mee to local hawker centres. Notable examples include “Penang Man” at Woodleigh Village and various pop-up events featuring veteran chefs like Toon Chin Hye (Ah Soon Fried Oyster).
In S’pore, hawkers even bid for lots in (some?) food courts. But the rules for them and customers are published and unambiguous.
…a prominent Singaporean food advocate …. has been a vocal critic of the Socially-conscious Enterprise Hawker Centres (SEHC) model in Singapore. He argued that certain management practices are detrimental to hawkers, such as 15% revenue-sharing models, mandatory use of specific suppliers, and up to 18 different categories of S$100 fines for infractions; required hawkers to provide “budget” or free meals, or face penalties.
Hawkers bid high price end up cost pass to customers. That is why Singapore food is expensive.
Singapore hawker rentals are high primarily due to surging demand for limited space in high-traffic areas, increased operating costs for management (especially in Social Enterprise Hawker Centres), and private sector landlords setting high market rates. While government-run centres exist, high costs are driven by high cleaning fees, stiff competition, and rising operational expenses.
Why the US Is Being Pushed Toward War With Iran?
Leaders from the Teoh Beng Hock Association for Democratic Advancement will join protest against MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki outside the commission’s headquarters in Putrajaya.
MACC has arrested a Terengganu state executive councillor this morning over suspicion of abusing
his position. The unnamed suspect, who is an elected representative in his 60s, had allegedly abused his power to make two state government-linked companies (GLCs) hire his two children.
Can Malaysia learn from Singapore’s pedestrian walkways?
“But why doesn’t Malaysia want to learn and implement what Singapore has done — providing user-friendly, covered pedestrian walkways that are well connected to various locations?
“How much longer will Malaysia continue to struggle to implement something like this?”
https://thesun.my/going-viral/malaysia-learn-singapore-on-how-to-improve-walkways/
Penang Island City Council has built a 172-metre covered pedestrian walkway along Jalan Utama, from Jalan Penjara to Jalan Datok Keramat, completed in August 2024. This walkway is part of a long-term plan to develop a network of sheltered walkways across Penang.
We are willing to learn from any big contractor, con-sultant or Mat Salleh government, but never Singapore.
Johor sells raw water cheaply to Singapore. Singapore treat the water … then sell the water back to Johor at a profit!
Such mentality will mean Singapore will benefit more from the SEZ?
EPF must not learn from Singapore CPF to give only 2.5% annual dividend.
Malaysia melatih emosi demi bangsa
Singapore melatih minda demi teknologi
Technology is not some magical value or virtue. For prosperity, peace, progress or even tech, you must have social stability, equity, public order and no foreign bullies. All of which starts with respect for others.
If you have respect for others, then no need to champion your ketuanan cause based on race and religion. Nobody is more superior than others.
Indeed so. As they say, the proof is in the pudding. In this case, it is Mother Nature, the Almighty’s assistant.
See how she treats everyone the same. For example, all women are able to give birth, regardless of race or religion.
She does not say only this or that race or religion is superior and therefore allowed to be born into this world.
The Almighty do not recognize nor follow such silly, man-made ideas of religious superiority over others.
The laws of the universe are set by the Almighty, not mortal humans, unless some have forgotten this.
Easy to talk about the Almighty. The existence is not proven but based on blind devotion. The Middle East is at war but where is the Almighty?
Azam has the right to sue Bloomberg for defamation but he should be careful not to fall into an entrapment. Bloomberg is not that easy to bully as they wont publish a story without evidences backing them up. Bloomberg and WSJ are renowned for their unbiased reporting. They are no easy walkover. Bloomberg has the time and resources to go all the way but will Azam has what he takes to be. … It is very interesting, challenging and intriguing to find and follow this development as they are played out. There can be only be one winner and a… Read more »
A “communications plan” allegedly linked to the late Daim Zainuddin’s family’s purported bid to “preserve” the former finance minister’s reputation has made the rounds on social media.
The 13-page document, which appears to have been prepared in August last year, bore the logo of a New York-headquartered global strategic advisory and communications firm. The document circulated online also appears not to include pages eight to 11.
Government officials sue at the drop of a hat, and even demand damages. They don’t pay lawyers for it. The AGC prosecutes at public expense.
Why did the DAP-led state government not introduce a gradual, phased revision of quit rent over the past two decades? The administration has governed the state for nearly 20 years and was fully aware that quit rent had not been revised for around 30 years. If adjustments were inevitable, why the sudden implementation of increases ranging from 29% to 200%, effectively three to four times the current rate in some cases? For many households, this is not a minor correction but a significant financial shock. Penangites are already facing rising assessment rates, higher water tariffs, electricity costs, Indah Water charges… Read more »
If the consolidated revenue account was already depleting, why were large-scale welfare programmes continued at substantial cost?
Were these programmes reviewed for efficiency and duplication, particularly when similar assistance schemes are already implemented at the federal level?
We Rakyat are not questioning the need to assist vulnerable groups. We are asking whether spending discipline was exercised before placing additional financial burdens on the public.
What discipline? Photos in newspapers show an official handing out envelopes containing “assistance” to people at dinner tables. No food shown. Who recorded who got what from which fund?
“ Action against govt officials, agencies must be grounded in law, says PM “
https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/02/19/action-against-govt-officials-agencies-must-be-grounded-in-law-says-pm
========
“He said all complaints should be handled in accordance with legal procedures and brought before the courts as necessary.”
That was the same position he previously took in relation to his deputy, that the principle of innocent until proven guilty should apply.
On 24 January 2022, the High Court ruled that the prosecution had established a prima facie case against Ahmad Zahid, requiring him to enter his defence.
A few months later, a discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA) was granted.
Then on 9 January 2026, the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) classified all 47 charges of criminal breach of trust, corruption and money laundering involving Yayasan Akalbudi funds as No Further Action (NFA), citing insufficient evidence to proceed.
If the court had earlier found a prima facie case, how did the matter ultimately end in DNAA and then NFA?
When significant shifts occur in a high-profile case involving senior members of the government, clear and transparent explanations become essential.
Without that clarity, public confidence in the consistency and independence of the legal process becomes difficult to sustain.
Has the state also examined the number of positions held by politicians, whether holding multiple posts and earning multiple incomes places an unnecessary burden on taxpayers?
Before raising revenue from the public, is the state tightening its own belt?
Fiscal discipline should begin internally, not externally. Not every resident lives in luxury or runs a large business.
Many ordinary Penangites are simply trying to keep up.
Leadership is ultimately judged not by how much revenue is collected, but by how responsibly it is spent and how carefully public burdens are weighed.
Politicians allegedly care for you to fill their own pockets. Don’t be scammed during GE16 empty promises as manifestos are just a luring trap
What non-empty promise can we expect? Even those who promised to end wars – e.g., Zelensky and Trump – renege.
PAS will not give up, says Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man, adding that it is still not impossible to form a grand Malay-Muslim umbrella coalition.
Calling for a return to unity grounded in Islam, the party’s deputy president said that revisiting the PAS-Umno-Bersatu alliance pursued during the 15th General Election to forge a united Malay-Muslim political force would become increasingly challenging as long as divisions persist within the ummah (Muslim community).
Aliran and it’s affiliated member NGOs has not engage the public about Corporate Mafia serious matter. Some suspect or allege that Mafia is alsowidespread among the NGOs hence the silence?!
Have you read Aliran’s press statement on the matter?
Mr Anil or Aliran has any inside information on the “Corporate Mafia” case and the identity of Mr. R?
“Stop the public bickering: Loke tells Chow and Guan Eng” https://www.thevibes.com/articles/news/120966/stop-the-public-bickering-loke-tells-chow-and-guan-eng ======== This issue should never have been reduced to “public bickering.” The matter at hand is a public policy issue – one that directly affects the Rakyat. This is not an internal party disagreement. YB Lim Guan Eng, as both an elected MP and ADUN, your primary duty is to the Rakyat who voted you into office. When a policy such as the quit rent revision raises legitimate concerns, it is your responsibility to speak up and ensure accountability – not to retreat when pressure comes from within the… Read more »
When the issue was raised, it was done in the context of policy. Yet the response from the Chief Minister appears to have shifted it into something personal. That, in itself, reflects a troubling approach to governance. As for the party leadership, dismissing this as “public bickering” misses the point entirely. There is a clear difference between debating public policy and airing internal party disputes. Conflating the two only undermines the seriousness of the issue. If there were concerns about how the matter was raised, proper engagement should have taken place behind closed doors first – not through public statements… Read more »
When a policy creates confusion, concern, or perceived unfairness, the response should be clarity and accountability – not defensiveness or the personalization of the issue. Leadership is not measured by how quickly criticism is silenced, but by how responsibly it is addressed. The quit rent issue remains unresolved in the eyes of many. Until it is properly explained and justified, it will continue to raise questions, regardless of how it is labelled. At the end of the day, public office is not about positions, titles, or authority. It is about responsibility to the Rakyat. That responsibility cannot, and should not,… Read more »
This also raises a broader question of consistency in leadership.
There was a clear public statement that if the requested RCI was not established, those holding positions in government would resign.
The cabinet meeting has come and gone, yet there has been no follow-through or explanation.
When firm commitments are made publicly but quietly set aside, it only reinforces the perception that principles are flexible when it becomes inconvenient.
We Rakyat are not asking for perfection – only for consistency, accountability, and honesty in both word and action.
The State says, ” For example, if the quit rent was RM100 in the previous year and the new rate is RM150 so with the rebate it would be RM75, but the landowner will need to pay the minimum rate of RM100, which is the rate for the previous year.” — So what does this statement actually mean in practice for taxpayers expecting genuine relief? None of the news reports mentioning the 50% rebate explained that there may be minimum rates, caps, or other rules that limit how the rebate is applied. If such conditions exist, they should have been clearly… Read more »
The announcement by the Chief Minister stated that the Penang state government would grant a 50% rebate on quit rent for 2026 to ease the burden on property owners.
However, the actual bills issued appear to tell a different story.
For example, the quit rent for a double-storey house up to 2025 was about RM45 per year. The revised quit rent for 2026, following the reported increase of between 29% and 200%, is now RM85 – almost a 100% increase.
A true 50% reduction would bring this amount down to about RM42.50. However, the 2026 bill shows only a fixed rebate of RM15, resulting in a payable amount of RM70. This is clearly not a 50% reduction.
( The above 2 is suppose to be the 1st paragraph followed by – The State says, ” For example, if the quit rent was RM100 in the previous year………
Quit rent also went up in other states.
Property value in Penang has gone up a lot in the last 2 decades!
When financial relief is announced publicly but the fine print quietly changes the outcome, it does not reflect transparency. It reflects a gap between what is promised and what is actually delivered — a gap that ordinary Rakyat are expected to absorb without question. It looks like a carefully crafted headline designed to sound generous, while ensuring the numbers tell a very different story when the bill arrives — much like how some practices in business create an appearance of benefit without delivering the full substance. If this is how public relief is communicated, it will surely become one of… Read more »
“ Chow dismisses criticism over land tax hikes, says engages with Penangites via Jelajah events “ https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2026/03/19/chow-dismisses-criticism-over-land-tax-hikes-says-engages-with-penangites-via-jelajah-events ======== Engagement through walkabouts is important, but it does not always capture the full reality of what is happening on the ground. This is why many feel the Chief Minister is out of touch with these realities, as the responses so far appear more focused on defending the policy than addressing its impact. For the rakyat, the rising cost of living has become overwhelming. Beyond quit rent, people are already facing assessment taxes, parking fees, utility bills, sewerage charges, and the rising cost… Read more »
Each increase may be justified on its own, but together they are steadily tightening the financial space that families depend on. What may appear manageable from a policy perspective can feel very different for households living on limited monthly incomes. Those with multiple sources of income may not fully grasp what it means to make daily choices under financial constraint. This is not a matter of misunderstanding, but a difference in lived reality. Policies may appear reasonable on paper, but good governance must also consider how decisions affect the Rakyat in their daily lives. In the end, the question is… Read more »
The docking of two United States Navy warships in Penang has drawn sharp criticism from both the opposition and a former PKR MP, who are pressing Putrajaya to explain how the move squares with Malaysia’s long-standing policy of neutrality and non-alignment.
Neutrality and non-alignment do not mean avoiding all contact or cooperation with foreign militaries.
In practice, Malaysia engages with many countries, including the US, China and others on a non-exclusive basis.
Port visits like this are routine and do not create any binding commitments or alliances. What matters is that Malaysia retains full control over its decisions, which remains unchanged.
The opposition needs to grow up. If they were the government, they would do the same.
The parasitic Empire bullies everyone with such ship visits. It is a show of having subjugated the visited nation. This is apart from (a) resupply and repair (b) “joint military exercises”. If sailors break our laws when ashore, MPs (sailors in special uniforms) arrive to let us know that we have no sovereignty over these barbarians.