PETALING JAYA (THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) - Malaysia's Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) has set up a task force over reports made against the country's anti-graft chief.

In a statement on Thursday (Oct 19), Attorney-General Mohamed Apandi Ali said the task force was formed on Monday.

"In view of the seriousness of the allegation that can affect the integrity of the chief commissioner of the MACC, the AGC has formed a task force... to closely monitor the investigations of the alleged offences under section 498 of the Penal Code and other related offences," the statement said, referring to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.

Section 498 refers to "enticing or taking away or detaining with a criminal intent a married woman".

The statement came after MACC chief Dzulkifli Ahmad on Tuesday addressed for the first time rumours of his alleged extramarital affair, saying he would not succumb to personal attacks.

He labelled the allegations dirty and despicable, saying it was intended to tarnish his reputation and to discredit MACC's efforts in combating corruption. He also vowed to fight corruption in the country without fear or favour.

"We will not bow down to pressure and we will continue to carry out our duties and responsibilities to ensure that the country is rid of those who are involved in corruption and power abuse," he told TV3 during an interview.

"I'm confident that these attacks were made following MACC's 'aggressive' actions against those involved in corruption and power abuse."

He added that he had contacted the Malaysian police chief regarding the matter and the police were set to take further action.

Tan Sri Apandi, in his statement, cautioned and reminded all parties from making any comments than can jeopardise the ongoing investigations.