Latheefa stresses priorities after Umno questions 'medals' on her uniform

Latheefa Koya said today that efforts to combat corruption take precedence over details of her uniform, after Umno supreme council member Lokman Noor Adam questioned her "many awards and medals" despite serving in the post for less than a month.

"I thank those who have commented for the great interest they have shown in my uniform," Latheefa said in a statement today.

"I frankly admit I am only now learning about rank badges, bar ribbons and uniforms.

"My immediate priority since taking office has been about several grave corruption cases, and not the details of my uniform."

Latheefa explained that her uniform does not carry any medals as claimed, but instead bar ribbons mandated for the post, according to the Standing Order of the MACC chief commissioner, Chapter A (Policy) No 1 of 2012.

"(It) directs that a chief commissioner by virtue of his/her position is to wear a certain number of bar ribbons," she said.

"Although essentially correct and acceptable, there were some minor discrepancies in the bar ribbons which have since been rectified.

"The other details on my uniform are the 'rank badges' which I must wear as chief commissioner, and based upon the standing order."

Latheefa also noted that bar ribbons should not be confused with medals or honorary titles awarded by palaces.

Yesterday, criticisms of the MACC chief's uniform went viral on social media.

Among the critics was Lokman, who said: "It is curious... how is it that having worked for only a month there can be so many stars and medals on her uniform... Were they bought on Lazada?"

"I would like to ask Lat (Latheefa) where she bought the many stars," he added.

Latheefa was announced as the new MACC chief on June 4.