MACC's move seizing Menara Ilham in accordance with law

SHAH ALAM - The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's (MACC) action to seize the Menara Ilham building belonging to a corporate figure on Dec 18 is in accordance with the country's law.

Selangor Rasuah Busters committee member Helmi Ibrahim said even though it took long, it was the anti-graft agency's responsibility to resolve the crisis that undermined the country's integrity.

"This is also the time for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to demonstrate his strong commitment to eradicating corruption.

"Hence, it's an acid test to assess the government's seriousness in combating corruption," he told Sinar, yesterday.

He said this in response to the seizure of the building, valued between RM1.5 billion and RM2 billion, following the refusal of its owner, a former cabinet member, to comply with MACC's instructions.

According to a close source, the former minister, known to be close to former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has been reluctant to declare his financial holdings and those of his family.

It was believed that the action was part of an investigation into an anti-money laundering case stemming from a corporate transaction valued at RM2.3 billion in November 1997, involving Renong Bhd and United Engineers Malaysia Bhd (UEM).

The Halal Economy Council secretary-general also said that the MACC's move was necessary due to the prolonged circulation of various conspiracy theories related to the individual, causing the country to suffer losses due to corrupt practices.

"It is hoped that the MACC will conduct a professional investigation that yields beneficial results.

"We do not want this to be another high-profile investigation that fades away without resolution," he added.