Acts of Embezzlement, Breach of Trust Should Be Investigated Without Exception - YADIM

PUTRAJAYA, April 23 (Bernama) -- Any act of embezzlement, breach of trust or misuse of zakat funds is subject to legal action in force, and must be investigated and prosecuted accordingly without exception.

In a statement today, Yayasan Dakwah Islamiah (YADIM) president Datuk Dr Hasan Bahrom said any form of betrayal of trust is an act that cannot be compromised.

"This dakwah body is confident that the MADANI government will not protect any party involved in such misconduct. In this regard, all parties are urged to respect the legal process and give space to the authorities to conduct a transparent, independent and professional investigation.

"However, society cannot rush to punish the entire zakat institution based on just one case involving a specific individual. "In the framework of MADANI Malaysia which emphasises the values ​​of trust, kindness and integrity, a fair and balanced approach is very important, so that confidence in institutions that have long served the ummah is not eroded by a perception that is not comprehensive," he said.

Recently, the media reported that two men in their 50s and 60s, including a deputy chairman of a non-governmental organisation (NGO), were remanded for four days until April 25 to assist in the investigation into a case of embezzlement amounting to approximately RM230 million for personal gain, including the purchase of luxury assets.

Hasan said that as a dakwah body, YADIM sees the issue as an important reminder to continue to strengthen integrity as the core of contemporary dakwah.

Meanwhile, Hasan said that his party calls on the entire community to continue to fulfil their zakat obligations with full confidence and not let such incidents weaken the spirit of solidarity and shared responsibility in helping those in need.

"In the spirit of MADANI Malaysia, let us together to defend this institution as a vehicle for social justice and common prosperity," he said.

-- BERNAMA