KUALA LUMPUR - The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has opened an investigation into a RM1.1 billion agreement between the Malaysian government and a foreign company.
According to sources, the investigation follows complaints from several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) alleging that the agreement was hastily arranged and biased, and could potentially cause financial implications to the government.
The source said MACC had taken several documents related to the agreement from the Ministry of Economy 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 Ministry of Finance (MOF) or the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI).
"However, the agreement was nonetheless signed in haste, and this will be verified through the testimony of key witnesses,” the source said.
The source added that the investigation also examines 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. - BERNAMA