Tan Sri Azam Baki has responded to questions surrounding his appointment as adviser to the National Financial Crime Centre (NFCC), stressing that the role was conferred by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
In a brief reply, he said his appointment was made under the authority of the King in accordance with Section 5 of the NFCC Act, and was not linked to his position as Chief Commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
Azam also stated that his selection was based on his 37 years of experience in law enforcement, rather than his current or former official roles.
The remarks come after opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin raised concerns in Parliament over the justification for Azam’s appointment, questioning it in light of previous allegations involving corporate and share ownership issues.
Separately, MCA Youth deputy chief Mike Chong Yew Chuan had also urged the government to provide clarification regarding the reported appointment, calling for greater transparency on the matter.
Azam clarified that he had previously served as NFCC adviser from March 2021 to March 2024, and was reappointed for a new term from September 2024 to September 2027.
He added that critics should verify facts with the NFCC or directly with him before making public statements, and reiterated that the appointment was made with the consent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong based on the advice of the then prime minister.
Meanwhile, NFCC director-general Datuk Seri Shamshun Baharin Mohd Jamil confirmed that Azam’s appointment to the advisory board for the 2024–2027 term was made in his personal capacity and with royal consent.
He said the appointment is not tied to Azam’s MACC position and remains valid until the end of the term unless terminated earlier by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
