MACC Chief vowed that he would resign rather than take action against his officers who are carrying out their lawful duties.

MACC chief Abu Kassim vows to defend his men

THE STAR

PETALING JAYA: Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief Tan Sri Abu Kassim Mohamed (pic) has vowed that he would resign rather than take action against his officers who are carrying out their lawful duties.

He said based on his 30 years experience, "I know that MACC officers have always carried out their duties in a professional manner.”

"I would like to stress that I am willing to resign, rather than take actions against my officers who have all this while been defending the MACC's independence, upholding justice, as well as carrying out their duties according to the law," said Abu Kassim.

His comments appreared to come from an internal memo that was reportedly leaked on Facebook.

MACC’s strategic director Rohaizad Yaakob confirmed to a news portal that the statement was authentic but only meant for internal circulation.

Rohaizad said the person who leaked the momo should ask where his or her integrity lies.

On Jan 27, MACC said it was referring the Attorney-General's (A-G) decision to close the SRC International and RM2.6bil donation cases to two of its independent panels as per standard operating procedures.

Abu Kasim said that such referrals was part of the process of closing a case and not a challenge to the A-G's powers.

He also warned his officers not to release unofficial statements relating to the A-G's decision.