KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission says it does not have to start fresh investigations into past cases as the Nov 19 ruling by the High Court is not retrospective.

"Whatever new developments, as ruled by the court, will take place from the date of the ruling," said a spokesman.

He said there was no possibility of statements taken from witnesses after-office hours in the last three years being declared null and void.

However, in light of lawyer and DAP chairman Karpal Singh’s statement that those who had been interrogated, including suspects, after-office hours in the last three years could file cases against the government and the police for damages under the Public Authorities Protection Act 1948, the spokesman said that was different altogether.

"The MACC Act 2009 applies to offences commited from Jan 1, 2009. Offences committed before that still follow provisions under the Anti-Corruption Agency Act 1997.

"The court is not bothered how evidence is secured, which is why past cases cannot be reverted to accommodate the new ruling."

The spokesman said the people had the right to file any claim, but they must also consider all possible consequences.

"They must understand that if they sue, they can also be counter-sued".

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