KUALA LUMPUR: Some RM27mil worth of assets have been identified in an ongoing investigation into the suspected misappropriation of RM230mil in non-governmental organisation (NGO) funds.
Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said the assets comprise four plots of land, seven houses, three office units, 18 vehicles and various valuables.
40 individuals have been identified and are expected to be called in to assist with the probe.
"The case does not involve the misuse of zakat funds. Instead, preliminary investigations revealed that the NGO received commissions for collecting public donations under the concept of ‘fisabilillah’.
“The NGO was taking 60% from the collected donations, while the remaining 40% was channelled to the respective states that authorised the fundraising activities," he told reporters on Saturday (April 25).
However, Azam said investigations found that part of the funds was misused for personal purposes, including expenses related to individuals and their family members.
"All identified assets and funds believed to be linked to the case will be frozen to facilitate investigations and determine their legitimacy," he added.
In a separate case in Negri Sembilan involving a freelance preacher, Azam said some RM18mil in cash and frozen bank accounts linked to another NGO suspected of misappropriating public donations have been seized.
"So far, we have recorded statements from 15 witnesses, with another 14 to 15 individuals expected to be called in," he said.
Both investigations may face delays due to the need to obtain bank documents, particularly older records dating from 2018 to 2022.
“Recent banking records are easier to obtain, but older documents typically take more time. However, banks usually cooperate and provide the required documents within about two weeks,” he explained.
Investigations into both cases are being conducted under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009.
Azam also did not rule out the possibility of further arrests as investigations continue, particularly as financial tracking efforts progress.
"We are also looking into possible offences under Section 403 of the Penal Code for dishonest misappropriation of property, as well as criminal breach of trust. In addition, money laundering investigations have been initiated for both cases,” he added.
