MACC said it remains open to receiving complaints and information related to corruption from any party, regardless of a person’s position or background.

However, it said all complaints must follow SOPs and security protocols to ensure safety, smooth operations and the protection of information.

“In this regard, access control at MACC premises is a standard practice applied consistently for all visitors and is neither discriminatory nor intended to prevent any party from lodging a report,” it said in a statement.

MACC also said its premises are subject to the provisions of the Prohibited Areas and Places Act 1959, which requires visitors to have valid authorisation, passes, or permits for entry, and are subject to directions and security inspections by authorised officers.

It also rejected claims that there were “gender-related issues”, as alleged in the complaint or statement-taking process, saying its officers are bound by professional ethics and legal procedures.

“MACC strongly rejects any attempt to manipulate security SOPs and enforcement procedures in order to create a narrative suggesting that the commission seeks to restrict or obstruct the complaint process,” it said.

Although the agency did not name anyone, the statement came after businessman Albert Tei reportedly claimed he was barred from entering MACC’s headquarters in Putrajaya with his two lawyers to lodge a report linked to allegations against former MACC chief Azam Baki.

According to Utusan Malaysia, Tei said only one lawyer was allowed to accompany him, despite his request to bring a female lawyer in case a female officer handled the report.

He also claimed that the officer on duty repeatedly told him the orders barring his entry came from his superiors, but failed to provide any written orders when requested.