Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission investigates rushed RM1.1 billion deal with foreign company, calls ministry secretary-general as witness

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission will call several witnesses, including a ministry secretary-general, to assist its investigation into a RM1.1 billion agreement between the government and a foreign company.

A source said the probe follows the opening of an investigation paper into alleged leakage of government funds.

“This case concerns the alleged mismanagement of government funds amounting to RM1.1 billion,” the source said.

Preliminary information suggests the proposal lacked approval from the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry.

The source claimed the agreement was nevertheless finalised in haste.

It was also alleged that several individuals were appointed to senior company roles after leaving the relevant ministry.

“In this regard, several witnesses, including the ministry’s secretary-general, are expected to be called to provide clarification,” the source added.

MACC Deputy Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya confirmed the investigation when contacted.

He declined to elaborate further on the case.

Media reports on February 16 stated the MACC opened the investigation paper following NGO complaints.

The NGOs alleged the agreement was rushed and skewed, with potential financial implications for the government.

The MACC collected several related documents from the Ministry of Economy on February 13 to facilitate its probe.

 The Sun Malaysia