PUTRAJAYA: Investigative agencies in Malaysia are free to conduct probes into any alleged wrongdoing without the consent of the country's leaders, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Paul Low said today.

He said agencies like the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, Bank Negara Malaysia and the police should be independent bodies as enshrined in the Constitution.

"If they were to investigate a crisis, they do not need the permission of the Prime Minister or anyone else.

"They are not instructed by the Prime Minister or cabinet members. They will automatically carry out investigations themselves," Low said during a question and answer session at the 16th International Anti-Corruption Conference here.

Several participants had earlier asked regarding investigations on 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) and allegations involving Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak reported worldwide for the past few months.

Low stressed that the problems faced in the probe involving 1MDB were related to leaked documents.

"We take the Penal Code seriously. When you start investigations, information cannot be leaked. Therefore, when a leak occurs, it will affect the integrity of the investigation."

He also said the public must wait for investigations to be concluded, as only then can those who are guilty of a crime be prosecuted.

"Integrity is not only about fighting bribery but also to ensure you do not accuse anyone wrongly. Protection must also be given to the investigation and audit," he said.

Resource : NST Online