The group said the allegations underscored the urgent need for comprehensive reforms, starting with the fast-tracked passing of the bill.

“These incidents reflect deeper systemic flaws, where politicians and elected representatives often depend on financial contributions from private entities, leading to compromised integrity.

“A robust political financing bill, mandating independent oversight of audited financial statements and incorporating public funding provisions, would ensure greater transparency and accountability, reducing reliance on donations from businesses,” they said in a joint statement.

The statement was endorsed by the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS), the National Human Rights Society (Hakam), Rasuah Busters, Bersih, Projek Sama, Engage, Agora Society, as well as researcher Maha Balakrishnan, ex-IDEAS CEO Tricia Yeoh and lawyer Andrew Khoo.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission is investigating an alleged corruption case involving mineral project licences, with links to a businessman said to have had dealings with several Sabah assemblymen.

Police and MACC reports have been filed against the ex-CEO of Sabah Mineral Management Sdn Bhd, Jontih Enggihon, accusing him of colluding with the purported whistleblower behind several videos alleging corruption involving the assemblymen.

Jontih has denied the allegations, saying the claim that he acted as a middleman between the whistleblower and assemblymen was a “total lie”.

MACC has summoned five assemblymen to date to provide their statements.

The coalition also called for freedom of the press to be protected to ensure journalists can report misconduct without fear of reprisal.

“We are deeply concerned about attempts to suppress media coverage of this case, as a free press is a cornerstone of democracy,” it said.

Last week, it was reported that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission urged online news portal Malaysiakini to take down an article and videos related to the allegations of corruption involving the assemblymen.

According to Malaysiakini, the letter from MCMC claimed that the article and videos could interfere in the police investigation into the alleged death threat against the purported whistleblower as well as compromise his safety and privacy.

Communications minister Fahmi Fadzil has denied having anything to do with MCMC’s request, saying it was made by the police.