AYER KEROH – Police will refer the investigation papers into a Deepavali food basket distribution programme organised by Kota Melaka Member of Parliament (MP) Khoo Poay Tiong to the Melaka State Prosecution Director for further action.
Melaka police chief DCP Datuk Wira Dzulkhairi Mukhtar said investigations into the programme were still ongoing after police recorded a statement from Khoo, who is also Melaka DAP chairman, on Nov 7.
"The case is under our investigation and will be referred to the State Prosecution Director," he told reporters after casting his vote at the Multipurpose Hall Polling Centre at the Melaka Contingent Police Headquarters (IPK) this morning.
The investigation concerns a Deepavali aid programme organised by Khoo's office at the Taman Melaka Baru Food Court on Nov 4, during which food baskets were distributed to families in need.
Two police reports were lodged against Khoo over alleged misuse of public assets in connection with the distribution programme.
On Nov 9, Khoo defended the initiative, saying it was an annual charitable programme organised in his capacity as an elected representative and not as an election candidate.
He questioned why the distribution had become an issue during the Melaka state election campaign, while confirming that he had cooperated with police and given his statement at the Melaka Tengah District Police Headquarters on Nov 7.
Khoo also said he was awaiting the authorities' decision on whether he would face prosecution over the matter.
The Election Commission (EC) has set Nov 14 as polling day for the 16th Melaka state election, following the dissolution of the 28-seat State Legislative Assembly on Sept 23.
Nomination day was held on Oct 31, while early voting took place today (Nov 10). The 14-day campaigning period ends at 11.59pm on Nov 13, ahead of polling day on Nov 14.
A total of 79 candidates are contesting all 28 state constituencies, with a simple majority of at least 15 seats needed to form the state government.