Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission chief commissioner Azam Baki has called for live broadcasts of corruption trial proceedings to boost public confidence in the judicial process.
In a Berita Harian report, Azam said certain parties had sought to manipulate actual court proceedings through social media posts, which he said had led to “several issues”.
“Allowing live broadcasts of corruption trials will allow the public to follow the proceedings,” he said.
“In my view, if this materialises, it will be a positive step which will reflect the government’s commitment to transparency,” he said.
Azam also proposed that lock-ups owned by enforcement agencies in the country be equipped with advanced closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to enhance transparency and integrity.
He said he was aware that CCTV systems used by some agencies were outdated, which he said could potentially give rise to certain allegations – especially in cases concerning deaths in custody or corruption.
“It shouldn’t be an ordinary CCTV system. It should be equipped with AI and must be linked to a central monitoring hub. It shouldn’t be a stand-alone system,” he said.
Azam said a more comprehensive paper on the matter would be presented to the government for further consideration.
He also revealed that three movie producers had expressed interest in producing an anti-corruption themed film, adding that he met with them and provided some cases for them to adapt on screen.
Azam said that any potential storyline and plot must be engaging and accurately convey the right anti-corruption message.
“I told them that the actors starring in the film must be of top quality,” said Azam.
“I told the producers that they must be serious in making this film. It must deliver the right anti-corruption message.”
