Budget 2026 Reflects Govt’s Commitment To Integrity, Curbing Leakages – Azam

Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has described Budget 2026 as a reflection of the government's strong commitment to strengthening integrity, combating corruption, and plugging revenue leakages for the well-being of the people. MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki stated that the commission welcomed the government's firm stance against corruption, abuse of power, and leakages that have caused significant losses to the country.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azam highlighted that the firm enforcement actions taken without fear or favour, which succeeded in recovering RM15.5 billion in national revenue over the past two years, demonstrate the effectiveness of joint efforts among enforcement agencies. He expressed appreciation for the government's move to allocate more than RM700 million to strengthen the capacity of enforcement bodies, including the MACC, particularly in training and asset acquisition.

Azam also noted the importance of the drafting of the Government Procurement Bill and the implementation of the Public Finance and Fiscal Responsibility Act, which are seen as crucial institutional reforms aimed at improving the procurement system and ensuring transparency in public fund management. He emphasized that the MACC welcomes the government's proposal to approve tax deductions for contributions to anti-corruption programmes recognised by the MACC as projects of national interest. This initiative is expected to foster greater collaboration with civil society and the private sector, thereby encouraging public participation in anti-corruption efforts.

Reaffirming the MACC's dedication to its mandate, Azam stated that the commission will continue to operate independently, transparently, and professionally through education, prevention, and enforcement approaches. He expressed confidence that with public support, the culture of integrity can be strengthened, good governance enhanced, and anti-corruption efforts further empowered in line with the aspirations of the MADANI Budget 2026.

Budget 2026, themed A Budget for the People, allocates RM470 billion in public expenditure, comprising RM338.2 billion for operating expenses and RM81 billion for development. Additionally, it includes RM30 billion in government-linked investment company (GLIC) investments, RM10 billion in public-private investments, and RM10.8 billion from federal statutory bodies and Minister of Finance Incorporated companies.