KUALA LUMPUR: Graft-busters are hoping that the planned amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act will encourage more people to come forward to report cases of corruption and power abuse, knowing that they would be better protected.

       The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and police, considered “heavy users” of the Act, fully support the proposed amendments.

       MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said with better protection, whistleblowers need not worry about being exposed should they report cases of corruption or power abuse.

       “It is not just about witnesses having more confidence; it is also about enforcement authorities being able to better convince the public to report any misdeeds,” he said.

       Azam said the MACC was among the agencies that make use of the Whistleblower Protection Act to protect those who come forward to report incidents of corruption.

       He added that the agency also makes use of the Act against those who take action against their employees or subordinates for calling attention to corrupt acts, adding that while the law was already in place, better protection for whistleblowers would be good.

       It was reported last year that 290 whistleblowers were given protection by the MACC under the Act for providing information on corrupt activities and power abuse since 2016.

       Bukit Aman Integrity and Standard Compliance Department (JIPS) director Comm Datuk Azri Ahmad hoped that the amendments would address issues in the existing law, which resulted in a low number of whistleblowers being protected.

       “We fully support the planned amendments to the law. Adequate protection should be given to ensure that such a mechanism will be effective,” he said when contacted.

       Comm Azri said the amendments should also give people more confidence to come forward and divulge information pertaining to various matters, especially wrongdoings.

       “I believe more people will be able to become whistleblowers if they are confident that the relevant law will protect them.

       “Information is vital in conducting a thorough investigation,” he added.

       Comm Azri said the relevant authorities should also look into whether there is enough awareness of the law.

       “We should check whether people are aware of the law that can ensure protection and confidentiality if they do come forward.

       “Some segments of society might not even be aware of the law, thus awareness is also important,” he added.

       Comm Azri said the amendments to the law should always benefit society, especially those giving information to the authorities.

       “Ensuring complete confidentiality to whistleblowers could inspire more people to come forward,” he said.