Tun Daim Zainuddin’s legal team has expressed concern over recent statements made by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), claiming that they are prejudicial to Daim’s right to a fair trial. They argue that MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki’s comments on Daim’s alleged holdings have implied or stated his guilt, disregarding the presumption of innocence.
The lawyers pointed specifically to Azam’s statement regarding the investigation against Daim, where it was suggested that Daim may have more undisclosed assets. They insist that this implies guilt and is in disregard of the principle of presumption of innocence.
The legal team also expressed concern that the statements made by Azam were in violation of the judge’s directive to refrain from making statements that would affect ongoing court proceedings. They urged Azam and MACC to respect the justice system and the legal process going forward.
MACC, on the other hand, announced on February 8 that they were considering summoning Daim for further questioning on suspicion of additional undeclared assets. Azam stated that the investigation was ongoing and that they had received information about other assets that Daim had not declared.
Daim, 85, was charged on January 29 for failing to declare his assets to MACC, facing a potential imprisonment of up to five years and a fine of up to RM100,000 if convicted. His wife, Toh Puan Na’imah Khalid, also faced trial on January 23 for failing to comply with a MACC notice requiring the declaration of assets.
