Why involve my 12-year-old, Saravanan says on MACC asset declaration orders

Former Malaysian human resources minister M Saravanan expressed concern over the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's (MACC) decision to summon his 12-year-old son to its headquarters for an asset declaration. Saravanan claimed that the notice could have been served through him, the child's parent, and questioned the sensitivity and discretion of MACC in involving his minor child. He stated that he would present himself at MACC's headquarters at 9:30 am the following day.

The MIC deputy president acknowledged MACC's broad power to seek information from relatives of individuals under investigation, as per Section 36(1)(b) of the MACC Act 2009. However, Saravanan emphasized that this power should not be enforced without discretion or sensitivity, particularly when a child is involved. He affirmed that he had no objection to declaring his assets and would cooperate with MACC, adding that his primary concern was the stress and worry placed on his 12-year-old son.

MACC chief Abd Halim Aman informed Saravanan that the commission would issue notices to him, his wife, and their three children, requiring them to declare their assets within a 30-day period, with an extension available if necessary.