Kuala Lumpur: Digital innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology in work processes, taxation, e-commerce, and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) reporting hold significant potential to enhance audit quality and facilitate greater compliance. Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki highlighted these advancements while also cautioning about the potential for corruption, fraud, and abuse of trust if such technologies are not properly governed.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tan Sri Azam Baki stressed the importance of integrity and accountability in managing these advanced systems, noting that even the most robust systems can be susceptible to manipulation without these key elements. He made these remarks during the International Conference on Technology, Management, and Sustainability (ICTMS 2025), organized by the Accounting Research Institute (ARI), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM).

Additionally, Azam revealed that the MACC is actively developing a new system to enhance the efficiency and impact of its anti-corruption enforcement efforts. He noted that the adoption of modern technology has significantly accelerated the MACC’s investigation and intelligence processes, with most cases now being resolved within three to six months, a notable improvement from previous years.

Furthermore, Azam mentioned ongoing discussions with the Attorney-General’s Chambers regarding the implementation of a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA). This initiative focuses on the recovery of large sums of money to be returned to the country, emphasizing not just prosecution but also the recovery of funds, particularly in high-profile cases.