PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has started a probe into the transfer of three Asian elephants from Taiping Zoo to Japan.
This came following allegations of corruption, misappropriation and abuse of power involving RM53mil in the transaction.
In a statement, MACC said the investigation will focus on the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry, the Wildlife and National Parks Department, as well as agents involved in the transfer of the three elephants, known as Dara, Amoi and Kelat (DAK).
According to MACC, the investigation was initiated following a report lodged by wildlife rights group Pertubuhan Hak Asasi Hidupan Liar Malaysia on June 18.
The group had alleged that payments related to the transfer were not channelled to the government as intended but linked the transaction to several individuals.
“The MACC will investigate the alleged leakages and examine whether there were any elements of corruption, misappropriation or abuse of power.
“We would like to stress that the investigation is still at an early stage and is being carried out comprehensively.”
The anti-graft body also urged the public not to speculate over the matter or draw conclusions that could affect the ongoing investigation.
“We are committed to conduct an investigation in a professional, independent and transparent manner and will not compromise on any acts of corruption or abuse of power should there be sufficient evidence for further action,” said MACC.
Amoi, aged nine, Dara (14) and Kelat (20), were sent to Tennoji Zoo in Osaka on March 10 under the Malaysian Elephant Conservation Programme for breeding and research purposes.
