KUALA LUMPUR, 9 September 2025 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is intensifying its investigation into former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad by formally requesting information from United Kingdom authorities regarding properties and assets allegedly linked to him overseas. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing asset probe that began in 2022, following Dr. Mahathir’s return to public life after decades of political dormancy.
At a press conference in Putrajaya, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki confirmed the commission is in the process of gathering documentation, including land registries and financial records, from the UK. He emphasized that, “If the information can be obtained, we will make an announcement in due course.”
The probe initially broadened in scope with MACC issuing asset declaration orders to Dr. Mahathir’s sons—Mirzan and Mokhzani Mahathir. Reports earlier this year revealed that Mokhzani declared more than RM1 billion in assets, while Mirzan declared around RM246 million. Azam Baki clarified that these declarations were connected to the probe into the elder statesman’s financial integrity.
Based on the information retrieved from the UK and other jurisdictions, MACC will determine whether to pursue further legal action—potentially including seizure or forfeiture—under Section 23 of the MACC Act, which addresses misuse of public office for personal gain and carries punishments of up to 20 years’ imprisonment and substantial fines.
The agency’s international outreach reflects its commitment to pursuing transparency at the highest levels—even as political sensitivities remain high. Dr. Mahathir has previously dismissed the investigations as politically motivated, a claim MACC has neither confirmed nor refuted.
This probe highlights MACC’s growing use of mutual legal assistance and cross-border collaboration in asset investigations—a governance trend gaining momentum across ASEAN. For regional policymakers and investors, the case underscores the importance of international partnership in enforcing accountability and protecting the integrity of public finance.
