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Kuala Lumpur, July 17 – The family of the late Teoh Beng Hock has firmly rejected the apology offered by Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki, stating that true justice can only be achieved through concrete action against the five officers implicated in his tragic death. This rejection underscores the family’s continued pursuit of accountability and their unwavering belief that the MACC's internal review falls short of delivering genuine closure.

Teoh Beng Hock, the younger brother of prominent political aide Tony Pua, died in 2009 while in MACC custody following an investigation related to the Selangor state government. The circumstances surrounding his death have been a source of immense grief and controversy, prompting numerous inquiries and debates over the MACC's handling of the case.

The recent apology from Azam Baki, acknowledging the MACC’s shortcomings in the past and expressing regret over the family’s suffering, was met with disappointment and skepticism. According to reports, the family emphasized that an apology alone is insufficient, and that meaningful justice requires disciplinary action and potential legal repercussions for the officers deemed responsible for Teoh’s death.

“We appreciate the apology, but it doesn't bring back our brother,” a spokesperson for the Teoh family reportedly stated. “What we want is accountability. We want to see the officers involved held responsible for their actions. The MACC needs to demonstrate a commitment to preventing such tragedies from happening again.”

The family’s demand for action against the officers is rooted in concerns that the internal review conducted by the MACC has not been thorough enough or impartial. Critics have argued that the MACC’s self-investigation lacks the necessary independence and transparency to ensure a fair assessment of the officers’ conduct.

This case has highlighted broader concerns about the powers and oversight of anti-corruption agencies in Malaysia. Activists and legal experts have repeatedly called for greater legislative reforms to ensure that such agencies operate within a robust framework of checks and balances, safeguarding the rights of individuals and preventing abuse of power.

The Teoh Beng Hock case remains a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring that those in positions of authority are held accountable for their actions. The family’s unwavering pursuit of justice serves as an inspiration for others seeking redress for grievances against the state and a call for systemic reforms to prevent future injustices.

The ongoing saga surrounding Teoh Beng Hock’s death continues to cast a shadow over the MACC, and the family’s insistence on accountability underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive review of the agency’s practices and procedures. The demand for action against the implicated officers is not merely about seeking retribution; it is about ensuring that the principles of justice and fairness are upheld for all Malaysians.