MACC Called 63 Individuals In Penang Zakat Fund Investigation

GEORGE TOWN, March 2 (Bernama) -- The Penang Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has summoned 63 individuals to assist in the investigation into the abuse of power case involving a senior state government official in the purchase of land and the misappropriation of zakat funds.

​According to MACC sources, all the individuals involved have been summoned in stages since the investigation began in mid-January, with MACC also intensifying efforts to review accounts suspected of being involved in corrupt activities.

​Among those summoned to record statements include members of the State Islamic Religious Council, Mufti, State Secretary, Finance Officer, Legal Advisor, as well as officers and staff at the agency in question.

​Also summoned were members of the Zakat Board and officers and staff at the state zakat centre.

Earlier this morning, Deputy Chief Minister I of Penang, Datuk Dr. Mohamad Abdul Hamid, arrived at the MACC office at Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah here at about 9.48 am.

​“Initial investigations found that the main suspect, who is a senior state government officer, along with a member of the State Islamic Religious Council, is suspected of using their respective positions to propose and approve the purchase of three lots of land at a price of approximately RM10 million.

​“For the second case, the main suspect along with the State Zakat Distribution general manager was found to have misused zakat funds through the Inapan Kasih and Financial Assistance Scheme totaling approximately RM184,000. The funds were used to settle the remaining housing loan of an asnaf without following the prescribed procedures,” said the source.

​At the end of January, the Penang MACC opened an investigation paper on the case following a revelation made by a State Assemblyman (ADUN) in the state session at the end of last year.

​Meanwhile, Penang MACC director Datuk Karunanithy Y. Subbiah when contacted confirmed the matter and informed that the case is being investigated under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009.

​-- BERNAMA