The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is deepening its collaborative efforts with Transparency International (TI) as part of a broader push to tackle corruption and strengthen institutional integrity. The partnership came into focus during a recent visit by TI chair François Valerian to MACC's Putrajaya headquarters, where he met with the commission's deputy chief commissioner (Prevention) Datuk Azmi Kamaruzaman.

During the meeting, Azmi highlighted MACC's dedication to widening the scope of its partnership with TI and identified promising opportunities for joint initiatives that could help bolster Malaysia's integrity framework. The discussion underscored the shared commitment of both organisations to promote good governance, transparency and stronger anti-corruption measures.

Malaysia has made measurable progress in tackling corruption, with its Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) score climbing by two points to reach 52 in 2025, while its global ranking improved from 57th to 54th position. Azmi noted that MACC's National Governance Planning Division coordinates the CPI Special Task Force, which brings together stakeholders from government ministries, public agencies, universities, businesses and community groups to address the factors influencing Malaysia's performance.

Valerian emphasised that sustained improvements in CPI rankings require a two-pronged approach combining preventive measures with rigorous enforcement action. He expressed TI's enthusiasm for working alongside anti-corruption bodies to elevate national performance standards and welcomed Malaysia's ambitious target of breaking into the global top 25 by 2030.

Valerian stressed the importance of ensuring anti-corruption agencies operate effectively, highlighting the need for adequate financial resources, skilled personnel and insulation from political pressure. These structural safeguards, he noted, are essential to maintaining the independence and integrity of anti-corruption institutions.