Tell Your Daddy: Public Asks Nurul to Convey Her Opinion to PM on Azam Baki's Extension
14 May 2025 • 10:30 AM MYT
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Image Credit: Focus Malaysia
The recent extension of Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief Tan Sri Azam Baki’s contract has stirred controversy, with Nurul Izzah Anwar labeling the decision as an unwelcome move. Her remarks have added fuel to an already sensitive issue, given the increasing public scrutiny surrounding the MACC's leadership and its credibility.
Azam, who has held the position since March 2020, was reappointed for another year—his third extension after two consecutive six-month terms. The extension, confirmed by Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, reignited debates about institutional reforms and transparency within the anti-corruption body. Critics have questioned whether continued reliance on the same leadership truly reflects the government’s commitment to tackling corruption head-on.
Nurul Izzah’s stance reflects a reformist viewpoint that has long been associated with her political identity. She emphasized the need for the ruling party to align itself with public expectations for meaningful reforms. However, her comments also opened the door to criticism, with many questioning the sincerity of her opposition given her close ties to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim—her father—who holds significant influence over such appointments.
The Prime Minister previously dismissed earlier speculation about Azam’s extension when a Bloomberg report suggested a decision had already been made. At the time, Anwar stated it was premature to conclude whether a renewal was forthcoming, yet weeks later, the extension was formally confirmed.
The decision has been met with ongoing concern from various quarters who feel the government has not done enough to show progress in curbing corruption. Detractors argue that reappointing the same leadership sends mixed signals about the administration's anti-corruption agenda, especially under the banner of the Madani government, which promotes values like integrity and accountability.
With party elections approaching, Nurul Izzah is vying for the position of deputy president in PKR, and her recent statements appear to be part of a broader effort to position herself as a principled reform advocate. Observers, however, believe that real change will be measured not by rhetoric but by concrete steps toward institutional independence and greater transparency.
As the government navigates both internal political dynamics and external pressure for reform, the controversy surrounding the MACC chief’s reappointment continues to serve as a litmus test for public trust in the current leadership’s commitment to good governance.
