Kota kinabalu: Penang’s Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) director, Datuk Mohd Fuad Bee Basrah, has been appointed as Sabah MACC director, effective August 15. In a statement today, MACC announced that he replaces Datuk S Karunanithy, who will assume the role of Penang MACC director.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the handover ceremony was overseen by MACC deputy chief commissioner (Operations) Datuk Seri Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya at the Sabah Federal Government Administrative Complex. Ahmad Khusairi emphasized the importance of not only preventing corruption but also aiding the state government in addressing leakages to ensure long-term benefits.

Ahmad Khusairi remarked that Mohd Fuad’s appointment is anticipated to bolster the anti-corruption efforts in Sabah with heightened aggression and strategic direction. He highlighted Karunanithy’s significant contributions during his tenure as Sabah MACC director, including building public trust and leading major operations against corruption and abuse of power.

Karunanithy credited the achievements of Sabah MACC to strategic collaboration with stakeholders, including federal and state departments and media partners. He expressed gratitude to the Sabah government and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor for their continuous support of MACC’s initiatives and proposals.

Reflecting on his nearly six-year leadership of MACC Sabah, Karunanithy urged personnel to maintain integrity and professionalism, underscoring the importance of unity in continuing the fight against corruption.