The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is deepening its partnership with Transparency International (TI) to bolster anti-corruption work and strengthen governance frameworks across Malaysia and internationally. A recent meeting between TI chair François Valerian and MACC deputy chief commissioner (Prevention) Datuk Azmi Kamaruzaman at MACC headquarters underscored the shared commitment to these goals.

Datuk Azmi highlighted MACC's appreciation for the established relationship with TI and reaffirmed the commission's determination to expand joint efforts in promoting good governance, integrity and transparency. MACC stated it remains committed to broadening existing partnerships and identifying fresh areas of collaboration that will help fortify Malaysia's integrity ecosystem.

Through its National Governance Planning Division, MACC serves as the main secretariat for the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) Special Task Force, coordinating with six dedicated focus groups. This structure enables the commission to work alongside ministries, government bodies, universities, businesses and civil society to analyse factors influencing Malaysia's CPI standing.

Malaysia's performance on the index has shown promising movement, with the 2025 CPI score climbing two points from 50 to 52 and the country's global ranking advancing three spots from 57th to 54th position. These gains reflect ongoing efforts to combat graft and enhance institutional accountability.

Valerian stressed that sustained improvements in CPI outcomes depend on combining robust preventive strategies with consistent enforcement measures. He noted that TI supports collaboration between anti-corruption agencies aiming to elevate their nations' index rankings. For anti-corruption bodies to function effectively, Valerian added, they require sufficient funding and staffing while maintaining independence from political interference. He also welcomed Malaysia's aspiration to rank among the world's top 25 countries on the CPI index by 2030.