PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) remains committed to reforms despite insufficient evidence to charge suspects in Teoh Beng Hock’s death investigation.
Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said in a statement on Wednesday (July 16) said the MACC acknowledges findings from various investigations over the 16 years since Teoh Beng Hock’s death.
These include the Royal Commission of Inquiry in 2011, the Court of Appeal’s decision in 2014, and the most recent police investigation, classified as No Further Action by the Attorney General’s Chambers.
“Although the latest investigation did not uncover sufficient evidence to charge any individual under the law, the MACC views with utmost seriousness the fact that the late Teoh Beng Hock was found deceased in the MACC Selangor premises on July 16, 2009.
This tragic incident has had a profound impact not only on the deceased’s family but also on all MACC personnel and the nation as a whole,” he said.
He added that reforms have been implemented to ensure the welfare of individuals assisting in investigations is safeguarded.
These include Video Interviewing Rooms for recording statements, upgraded CCTV systems with strategic placement, and Body Worn Cameras during investigations.
“In light of this, I, as the Chief Commissioner of the MACC, wish to express my deepest sympathies and extend an apology to the family of the late Teoh Beng Hock for the pain and suffering they have endured over the years.
“The MACC also acknowledges that, on May 12, 2015, the government paid RM600,000 in compensation to the family along with an additional RM60,000 in legal costs as a full and final settlement under Sections 7 and 8 of the Civil Law Act 1956.
“Nevertheless, as a gesture of compassion, the MACC is prepared to provide a goodwill contribution to the late Teoh’s family for the purpose of supporting the welfare and educational needs of his child,” he said.
Teoh was found dead on July 16, 2009, on the fifth-floor corridor of Plaza Masalam in Shah Alam after giving a statement at the Selangor Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission office on the 14th floor.
