Malaysian corruption scandal: are whistle-blowers truly protected?

Two Malaysian lawmakers – along with the businessman who exposed them in covert videos – have been arrested in Sabah state, anti-corruption authorities have confirmed, in a scandal that has raised questions over protections afforded to whistle-blowers.

Sabah, Malaysia’s second-largest state, is among the country’s poorest and has long been plagued by corruption allegations, including those linked to former chief minister Musa Aman, controversially appointed governor earlier this year.

On Wednesday, Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief Azam Baki confirmed the arrests of the lawmakers in a major development since officials reopened investigations following strong public pressure.

“Those people will be charged in court this month, maybe [towards] the end of this month, pending court dates,” Azam said.

But the MACC also confirmed that Sabah-based businessman Albert Tei would be charged alongside the two assemblymen – who were not named – as he was not protected by the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010.

Tei had secretly filmed videos allegedly showing senior state politicians soliciting and accepting bribes. He shared the videos with news portal Malaysiakini, which posted them on its platform.