Kuala Lumpur, 8 April 2026 – The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) has appointed Manoj Kurup as its new Executive Director of Enforcement, marking a strategic move to further strengthen regulatory oversight and investor protection in Malaysia’s capital markets.
The appointment, effective immediately, comes at a pivotal time as the SC intensifies its enforcement capabilities amid evolving market complexities and rising financial risks. Manoj succeeds Budiman Lutfi Mohamed, who was recently appointed as a judicial commissioner of the High Court of Malaya.
Manoj brings with him over three decades of legal and prosecutorial experience, having previously served as the Head of the Prosecution Division at Malaysia’s Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) before retiring from public service in 2024. His extensive career also includes leadership roles in the Appeals Division, reinforcing his credentials in handling complex legal proceedings and high-profile cases.
Notably, he was part of Malaysia’s prosecution team involved in the international investigation into the MH17 tragedy, an experience that underscores his exposure to cross-border legal collaboration and high-stakes enforcement environments.
The SC highlighted that Manoj’s appointment reflects its continued commitment to upholding market integrity and strengthening enforcement outcomes. His leadership is expected to enhance the regulator’s ability to address capital market offences, including fraud, market manipulation, and breaches of securities laws.
Chairman Mohammad Faiz Azmi expressed confidence in Manoj’s capabilities, noting that his deep legal expertise and leadership experience will play a crucial role in reinforcing the SC’s enforcement framework and safeguarding investor interests.
The Enforcement Division of the SC plays a central role in maintaining a fair, transparent, and orderly capital market. It oversees investigations, criminal prosecutions, and civil enforcement actions against market misconduct—functions that are critical in sustaining investor confidence and ensuring long-term market stability.
For investors, this leadership transition signals a continued regulatory focus on accountability and governance, particularly as Malaysia positions itself as a competitive and trusted capital market hub within the region.
