KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 — Former Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki has filed a defamation suit against businessman Albert Tei over statements published on social media and online platforms.

In a statement today, law firm Zain Megat & Murad, which represents Azam, said a writ of summons and statement of claim were filed at the Shah Alam High Court yesterday, according to a report published by Berita Harian.

The suit concerns the publication and republication of statements about Azam through a podcast, YouTube Shorts and other online content.

Azam is seeking damages as well as a permanent injunction against the defendant.

“Our client maintains that the allegations are baseless and untrue, and has initiated these proceedings to defend his reputation and good name built over nearly four decades in public service,” the firm said.

The statement added that Azam and his legal team would not comment further on the merits of the case as it is now before the courts.

The firm also urged all parties to respect the ongoing court process.

Tei had recently made several allegations against Azam in relation to disputes and ongoing investigations.

Among others, he claimed he was threatened, obstructed and victimised while attempting to expose an alleged corruption scandal involving several Sabah politicians.

Police are currently investigating a report lodged by Tei on May 13 alleging criminal intimidation involving Azam’s lawyer.

On June 3, Azam gave his statement to investigators at Bukit Aman.

The case is being investigated under Section 506 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation.

Azam retired as MACC chief commissioner in May after nearly 40 years in the anti-graft agency, including five years at its helm.