Govt forfeits RM835,258.19 from Pahang MCA

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court here has allowed an application by the government to forfeit RM835,258.19 from Pahang MCA.

In his decision, Justice Muhammad Jamil Hussin said the respondent (Pahang MCA) did not deny the monies were funds received from former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

The applicant contended the monies were the balance from a RM3mil donation from Najib, while the rest had been spent.

"However, the respondent failed to produce bank statements to support their claim," the judge said here on Wednesday (July 8).

Justice Jamil said the prosecution had proven its case on the balance of probabilities.

"I am satisfied that the money was proceeds from illegal activities.

"I, therefore, allow the application," he added.

The court also noted that no third party came forward to contest the forfeiture suit on the monies.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Farah Yasmin Salleh appeared for the prosecution, while lawyers Datuk Ben Chan and Ken Low appeared for the respondent.

The forfeiture suit against MCA Pahang is part of a civil forfeiture action announced by then Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission commissioner Latheefa Koya on June 21,2019.

The civil action involved 41 individuals and entities to recover RM270mil linked to 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB).

Latheefa said the suit was filed under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.