Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has tasked its Multi-Agency Task Force (MATF) with recovering RM10 billion in misappropriated funds and state revenue losses this year. Chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki stated that achieving this target requires all relevant enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to recoup lost revenue, with a particular focus on curbing smuggling operations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azam emphasized the importance of addressing widespread smuggling activities, as these directly deprive the state of tax revenue. He highlighted that it is crucial not only to seize contraband goods but also to investigate the history of such trades, which might have been ongoing for years. Azam stressed the need to reclaim lost funds and directed all state MACC directors to prioritize this initiative.

During a press conference at the Corruption Awareness Programme: MACC with East Zone Media, Azam reported that the MATF successfully recovered RM15.5 billion from leakage and misappropriation cases between 2023 and 2024. He advised state-level MACC directors to focus on current issues specific to their regions to combat state revenue leakage effectively.

Azam cited Kelantan as an example, where issues such as border enforcement, smuggling leaks, and illegal logging are prevalent, leading to significant tax revenue losses. He urged enforcement agencies to address these challenges and also focus on administrative aspects within each state to ensure integrity and combat corruption and misconduct effectively.