KUALA LUMPUR, March 4 -- The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is seeking information on the whereabouts of a former aide to PKR leader Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli as part of an investigation into a government-backed semiconductor project.

The commission issued a notice today regarding Chai Jin Shern, also known as James Chai, who previously served as a special functions officer to Rafizi during the latter's tenure as economy minister.

The notice, which included a photograph of Chai and his last known address, has drawn criticism from certain quarters who view the practice as stigmatising for individuals under investigation. The MACC has denied that the method is intended to humiliate.

It is unclear if the MACC had already issued...