Collating 43 years' worth of info an impossible task, say Dr M's sons on MACC order

PETALING JAYA: The two sons of former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad have called for "patience and understanding" from all parties after they confirmed they had yet to submit their asset declarations to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

In a joint statement on Thursday (Feb 8), Tan Sri Mohkzani Mahathir and Mirzan Mahathir called for all associated parties to refrain from commenting on the cases as their 30-day deadline to comply with MACC's request had yet to expire.

ALSO READ: Mahathir’s sons yet to submit asset declarations

Mirzan was ordered to declare his assets on Jan 17 and Mokhzani on Jan 26.

"We are in the midst of compiling available information and engaging with relevant parties to assist and advise us on the process as MACC has requested a list of assets going back to 1981.

"The task at hand in collating 43 years' worth of information is an impossible endeavour, and we ask for patience and understanding to address MACC's request.

"To avoid any misrepresentation or prejudgment, it would seem appropriate for all parties to apply restraint when commenting on this case especially when we have not been informed of the specifics of the investigation other than that it pertains to our father," read the statement.

ALSO READ: Mohkzani, Mirzan can be charged if they fail to declare assets, says MACC

The statement comes after MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said on Tuesday (Feb 6) that Mirzan and Mokhzani had yet to submit their asset declarations despite being served notices under Section 36 of the MACC Act 2009.

Azam also said the two brothers could apply for an extension when their respective 30-day periods end.

The investigation into Mirzan was reported to be in relation to information contained in the Panama Papers on his business activities related to sales and purchases of government-linked companies.

The probe on Mokhzani is not related to Mirzan's investigation but also involves a government-linked company.