BNM, MACC and IRB agree to strengthen cooperation to combat financial crimes

PETALING JAYA: Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and Inland Revenue Board (IRB) have agreed to strengthen their strategic cooperation in combatting financial crimes, corruption and tax evasion.
In a joint statement today, the agencies said the tri-partite effort would strengthen the country's financial system, increase national revenue and build a country that is free from corruption and abuse of power.
"All three agencies are strongly committed to ensuring the financial institutions are not used as a conduit to channel proceeds derived from financial crimes," it noted.
BNM's governor Datuk Muhammad Ibrahim said the collaboration of the three agencies will restrain the channelling of illegal proceeds and illegal transactions through the financial system, which is a key in maintaining the integrity and public confidence in the Malaysian financial system.
In addition, MACC chief commissioner Datuk Dzulkifli Ahmad said the collaboration would allow exchange of information on investigation as well as reinforces the sharing of best practices between the three agencies.
"The meet was mooted to reinforce and showcase initiatives and intention by all three agencies in tackling bribery and corruption besides promoting public awareness in financial crimes," Dzulkifli said.
Meanwhile, IRB CEO Datuk Sabin Samitah said the strategic alliance is a necessary step towards reducing tax leakages that result from financial crimes.
"We firmly believe the synergy between our three agencies will bring forth significant benefits for the betterment of our beloved nation," he added.