SHAH ALAM – Pertubuhan IKRAM Malaysia (Ikram) has immediately suspended one of its members who is under investigation over alleged mismanagement of zakat funds following an arrest by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on Tuesday.
Its president Badlishah Sham Baharin said the organisation has taken note of reports on the arrest of three individuals in Hulu Selangor in connection with the case.
He stressed that Ikram viewed the matter seriously, noting that integrity and trust were core principles underpinning all of the organisation’s work.
“As such, Ikram fully respects the ongoing investigation by the MACC and will continue to extend full cooperation in line with legal requirements and principles of justice.
“As an administrative measure and without prejudice to any party, the individual involved has been immediately relieved of all positions and responsibilities within the organisation. This is to ensure a smooth and transparent investigation process,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.
Earlier, it was reported that three individuals, including a deputy chairman of a non-governmental organisation (NGO), were arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of misappropriating approximately RM230 million in zakat funds.
According to sources, two male suspects in their 50s and 60s were detained between 3pm and 5pm in an operation carried out by the Selangor MACC in the Klang Valley.
Badlishah said the matter involved the actions of individuals and did not directly implicate the organisation.
He added that in line with Ikram's constitution, disciplinary action would be taken if the individuals were found guilty to safeguard the organisation’s integrity.
“Ikram will continue to respect the ongoing legal process and will not make further comments on the matter. Any decisions or explanations will depend on the outcome of investigations by the authorities.
“We remain committed to strengthening governance practices to ensure transparency, integrity and compliance with Islamic principles and the rule of law. Internal reviews are ongoing and will continue to ensure a comprehensive assessment.
“We appreciate the public’s concern and ask that space be given to the authorities to carry out their investigations properly,” he said.
He added that Ikram remained firm in its belief that trust was a major responsibility that must be upheld with integrity.