Shahril Hamdan said the controversy would test Anwar’s “political identity” as a leader against corruption, as well as the impartiality of the anti-graft agency.

He added that Anwar’s image invited “constant scrutiny and testing”.

“And if one’s tone varies depending on the case, very aggressive in some instances and less forceful in others, it fuels speculation,” he said in the latest episode of the Keluar Sekejap podcast.

Shahril also said Shafee Abdullah, the lawyer representing the purported whistleblower, had said his client did not trust MACC.

“So, it’s another test for anti-corruption institutions to prove their impartiality. And I’m sure that’s what they intend to do.”

On Monday, MACC said it was investigating the purported whistleblower who allegedly had information related to corrupt practices involving several Sabah assemblymen regarding prospecting licence approvals. Its chief Azam Baki also said the purported whistleblower had declined to submit the evidence in his possession.

The controversy, which some claim is a plot to oust Sabah chief minister Hajiji Noor, came about after the purported whistleblower leaked videos implicating the assemblymen. Sabah Umno has since denied being the mastermind but said Hajiji should step down as chief minister.

Shahril’s co-host, former Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin, said the public would question the commitment of leaders and agencies when it came to fighting corruption.

“When seemingly strong evidence emerges, there must be a robust and comprehensive response. A more robust and complete answer is required,” he said.

He also said many would question the pace of the probes, citing the example of the Fashion Valet fiasco.

The company’s founders, entrepreneurs Vivy Sofinas Yusof and her husband Fadzaruddin Shah Anuar, were hauled to court a month after MACC initiated its probe.

“But when a case has political implications, the pace seems to slow down,” Khairy said.