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PUTRAJAYA: Law and institutional reform minister Azalina Othman Said has been elected as the president of the 13th Session of the Assembly of Parties (AoP) of the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA), marking the first time a Malaysian is holding the presidency of the global anti-corruption body.
In a statement, the foreign ministry said the unanimous election of Azalina was a historical milestone that reinforced the nation’s commitment to anti-corruption efforts.
The ministry expressed gratitude for IACA’s trust and support for Azalina, adding that it affirmed the international recognition of the government’s commitment to combat corruption.
It said Azalina’s election also acknowledged IACA’s confidence in her leadership in law reform and governance.
“Malaysia remains committed to working closely with the IACA and its strategic partners to advance the anti-corruption agenda and uphold the principles of good governance and justice worldwide,” it said.
The IACA, which was established in Austria in 2011, serves as a global centre for research as well as a training hub for professionals from anti-corruption agencies.
Malaysia, through the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, plays an active role in the IACA and has held the vice-president’s position on four occasions.