AG: Revealing details can compromise 1MDB probe

KUALA LUMPUR: Details of the probe on 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) cannot be made public as it could compromise the investigation process, said Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohamed Apandi Ali.
In a statement issued today, he said the investigating agencies have issued media statements to provide general updates on developments in the investigation to the public.
"Regardless of those general updates, given that investigations are underway, it would not be appropriate to divulge details that may compromise those investigations.
"More specifically it would not be appropriate to disclose the advice, instructions, directions or guidance given to the investigating agencies," he said.
Mohamed Apandi said while the public is entitled to be informed, details of criminal investigations which comprise of, among other things, contents of statements given by witnesses are privileged and the law prohibits such matters from being disclosed.
On Thursday, the five independent oversight panels of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission had called for the findings in the 1MDB investigation to be made public as soon as possible.
He said the department was aware of public concern relating to the progress and outcome of the 1MDB investigations.
"As the investigating agencies have repeatedly emphasised in previous media statements on this matter, it is crucial to preserve the integrity of the investigation as the public must not doubt it" he said.