KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has opened an investigation into a RM1.1bil agreement between the Malaysian government and a foreign company.
According to sources, the investigation follows complaints from several non-governmental organisations, which allege that the agreement was hastily arranged and biased, and could potentially lead to financial implications for the government.
The source said MACC had taken several documents related to the agreement from the Economy Ministry on Feb 13 to assist in the investigation.
“This case involves alleged leakages of huge sums of government funds. Preliminary information suggests that the proposed agreement did not receive approval from the Finance Ministry or the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry.
“However, the agreement was nonetheless signed in haste, and this will be verified through the testimony of key witnesses,” the source said, reported Bernama.
The source added that the investigation is also examining potential conflicts of interest, as several individuals were reportedly appointed to senior positions in the foreign company after leaving the relevant ministries.
Following this, MACC is expected to summon several key witnesses, including the secretary-general of the relevant ministries, to provide clarification regarding the implementation of the agreement.
Meanwhile, MACC deputy chief commissioner (Operations) Datuk Seri Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya confirmed that an investigation has been opened but declined to comment further.
The case is currently being investigated under the relevant legislation to determine whether there were elements of corruption, abuse of power or misappropriation during the signing of the agreement.
