Discuss with private sector before amending MACC Act 2009 — ACCCIM
KUALA LUMPUR: The Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) president Tan Sri Ter Leong Yap, together with vice president Datuk Seri Andrew Liew Sui Fatt, deputy secretary general Michael Chai and legal advisor Philip Koh Tong Ngee recently called on the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law) Datuk Liew Vui Keong.
They discussed the proposed amendment to Malaysia AntiCorruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009 to make companies liable for corruption compared to only individuals previously.
ACCCIM has urged the government to consult and discuss with the private sector before amending the Act.
The association opined that the proposed amendments must clearly specify provisions for reduced sentencing to safeguard and provide legal protection for staff who unintentionally or unknowingly committed an offence under the Act, as well as to shield companies from the actions of its staff who have violated work ethics.
ACCCIM said that these issues were also widely debated in Europe and England.
The association stated that companies in an emerging market like Malaysia already complied with various laws and regulations.
“Introduction of any new laws will incur an increase in costs.
“The Government should curb corruption through consultation, education and transparency in enforcement,” the association stressed.
Under the proposed amendment, an offence committed by a company may be deemed to have been committed by its shareholders, board of directors or its management.
It was said that the new provisions would give more power to the MACC in fighting corruption in the private sector as it would allow for firms to be held liable when their employees committed bribery.