Kuala lumpur: The government takes seriously any allegations involving 'corporate mafia' activities that could undermine the integrity of, and public confidence in, public institutions, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said. She stated that the ongoing investigations should be allowed to proceed independently, transparently, and comprehensively, in accordance with the law and established procedures.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azalina emphasized that any follow-up action should be guided by the findings of the investigation to ensure that every decision is based on facts, justice, and the rule of law. Her comments were in response to a query from RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong) regarding the status of investigations into the alleged 'corporate mafia' case and a proposal to establish a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to investigate the matter.
Azalina outlined that the establishment of an RCI in Malaysia is governed by the Commissions of Enquiry Act 1950 (Act 119). She explained that under current standard operating procedures (SOPs), the process begins with the lead ministry preparing a Cabinet memorandum to address a matter of serious public interest.
Upon Cabinet approval, the Prime Minister will seek an audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to obtain His Majesty's consent, Azalina mentioned. With royal consent, the RCI's establishment involves finalizing its terms of reference, membership, and duration of the inquiry, formalized through publication in the Federal Government Gazette before the commission begins its work.
The government remains open to considering the establishment of an RCI or any other appropriate mechanism if deemed necessary in the public interest, Azalina noted. She added that any proposal to establish an RCI to investigate the 'corporate mafia' issue will be considered according to legal procedures and requirements, taking into account the facts, findings, and latest developments from ongoing investigations by relevant authorities.