Kuala lumpur: 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. MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki stated that 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.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, recent investigations did not uncover sufficient evidence to charge any individual under the law. Nonetheless, the MACC acknowledges the seriousness of the incident, as Teoh was found dead at the Selangor MACC premises on July 16, 2009, a dark chapter that affected his family, MACC personnel, and the nation. Azam expressed his sympathy and sincere apologies to Teoh’s family for their enduring suffering.
The reforms include the establishment of Video Interviewing Rooms to record statements from witnesses, detainees, and suspects, along with ground-floor interview rooms to enhance access and transparency. The number of closed-circuit television cameras at MACC premises has been increased, featuring high-tech capabilities and strategic placements to monitor and record all individuals entering the building.
Additionally, all MACC buildings now have iron grilles aligned with official safety guidelines. Body-worn cameras are used during every investigation to capture on-ground activities and ensure the integrity of officers. The commission has adopted the PEACE (Planning, Engage, Account, Closure, Evaluation) interview technique, modeled after the UK system, to prioritize effectiveness and safety, now known as the MACC PEACE model.
Azam noted the findings of multiple investigations into Teoh’s death, including the Royal Commission of Inquiry in 2011, the Court of Appeal ruling in 2014, and the most recent police investigation, classified as No Further Action by the Attorney General’s Chambers. On May 12, 2015, the government compensated Teoh’s family RM600,000, with an additional RM60,000 for legal costs, as a full and final settlement under Sections 7 and 8 of the Civil Law Act 1956.
Despite this, MACC is prepared to offer a goodwill contribution to Teoh’s family to support the welfare and education needs of his child, with the amount to be determined later. 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.