Malaysia Names Former High Court Judge as Anti-Graft Chief

Former High Court judge Abdul Halim Aman has been appointed as the next chief commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), effective May 13.

King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar consented to the appointment, marking the first time a former judge has been selected to lead the agency. Halim will succeed Azam Baki, whose tenure ends on May 12 after three one-year extensions since his initial 2020 appointment.

Strengthening the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC)

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that Halim will serve a two-year term. Anwar highlighted Halim’s judicial background and lack of political or business affiliations as key factors in his suitability to lead the commission.

Chief Secretary to the Government Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar stated that the government is confident Halim’s integrity and broad experience will enhance governance and increase public confidence in the national agenda to eradicate corruption.

Halim, 69, possesses nearly two decades of judicial experience. He joined the Judicial and Legal Service in 1982, serving for 22 years before being appointed as a Judicial Commissioner in 2005.

He was elevated to a High Court judge in 2007 and officially retired from the bench in March 2023.

The transition in leadership comes ahead of a planned rally demanding the removal of the current incumbent.