16 Years On, MACC Draws Lessons From Teoh Beng Hock Tragedy For Reforms - Azam

PUTRAJAYA, July 16 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has introduced a series of reforms over the years to better protect the welfare of individuals assisting in its investigations.

In a statement today, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said the commission had drawn lessons from the tragic death of Teoh Beng Hock 16 years ago and remains firmly committed to addressing past failings and restoring public trust.

“Although recent investigations did not uncover sufficient evidence to charge any individual under the law, the MACC takes seriously the fact that the late Teoh was found dead at the Selangor MACC premises on July 16, 2009.

“It was a dark chapter that had a profound impact not only on Teoh’s family but also on MACC personnel and the nation. As Chief Commissioner, I wish to express my sympathy and offer my sincerest apologies to the family for the suffering they have endured over the years,” said Azam.

Among the improvements introduced are the establishment of Video Interviewing Rooms to record statements from witnesses, detainees and suspects, as well as the setting up of ground-floor interview rooms to ensure easier access and greater transparency.

Azam said the number of closed-circuit television cameras at MACC premises has been increased, with high-tech features and strategic placements to monitor and record the movements and conduct of every individual who enters the building.

“All MACC buildings are now equipped with iron grilles in line with official safety guidelines. Body-worn cameras are used during every investigation operation to capture activities on the ground and safeguard the integrity of our officers.

“We have also adopted the PEACE (Planning, Engage, Account, Closure, Evaluation) interview technique, used in the United Kingdom. This method, which prioritises both effectiveness and safety, has been adapted as the MACC PEACE model,” he said.

Azam added that the commission acknowledges the findings of multiple investigations into Teoh’s death over the past 16 years, including the Royal Commission of Inquiry in 2011, Court of Appeal ruling in 2014, and most recent police investigation, which was classified as No Further Action by the Attorney General’s Chambers.

He said MACC is also aware that on May 12, 2015, the government paid RM600,000 in compensation to Teoh’s family, along with an additional RM60,000 in legal costs, as a full and final settlement under Sections 7 and 8 of the Civil Law Act 1956.

“Nonetheless, as a gesture of compassion, MACC is prepared to offer a goodwill contribution to the family, with the amount to be determined later, to support the welfare and education needs of Teoh’s child,” he said.

Teoh, who served as political secretary to then-Seri Kembangan assemblyman Ean Yong Hian Wah, was found dead on July 16, 2009, at Plaza Masalam, after giving a statement at the MACC office on the 14th floor of the building.

-- BERNAMA