Kuala lumpur: Starting January 2026, Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officers who are obese or do not meet the required body mass index (BMI) will not be eligible for promotion, said MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki. The measure aims to highlight the importance of health among MACC personnel and ensure their fitness remains optimal.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azam emphasized that many civil servants deal with obesity or excessive weight, which affects their appearance, fitness, and the quality of service delivery to the public. During a press conference following the handing over of duties between Kelantan MACC’s new director Azmin Yusoff and former director Rosli Husain, Azam stated that an overweight government officer would be unable to perform well and would be at risk of health problems.

A circular on the matter is expected to be issued next week, granting all officers six months to manage their health. Azam specified that those with weight issues need to lose weight unless they have underlying medical conditions. The initiative follows the example of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), which has already implemented a BMI requirement for promotions.

Azam announced that the MACC has set a maximum BMI limit of 27, with internal administrative directives to be issued soon. He had previously mandated that personnel in each state undergo health check-ups at government hospitals every three months. State and divisional MACC directors have acted on this directive, encouraging officers to seek treatment and change their lifestyle if they have health issues.