MACC seizes RM4 million in assets of preacher linked to NGO fund misappropriation

KUALA LUMPUR - The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has seized assets worth approximately RM4 million believed to be linked to an independent preacher under investigation for alleged misappropriation of funds from a non-governmental organisation (NGO).

A source said the Negeri Sembilan MACC carried out the latest seizure today, involving various foreign and local currencies amounting to RM152,155, as well as 7,325 Saudi Riyals and SGD27,134.

"In addition to the cash seizure, various gold ornaments valued at about RM2 million were also confiscated, bringing the total value of assets seized over the past two days to around RM4 million,” the source said.

Preliminary investigations revealed that two NGO committee members suspected of colluding with the preacher were his wife, who serves as the organisation’s treasurer, and its secretary.

"Investigations found that funds were allegedly transferred into the preacher’s personal bank account as well as into accounts belonging to eight companies linked to him, without the knowledge of other committee members,” the source added.

Negeri Sembilan MACC director Awgkok Ahmad Taufik Putra Awg Ismail confirmed the matter when contacted.

He said the eight companies involved operate in sectors including printing, publishing, book sales, marketing, product distribution, human resource management and product ambassador management.

Yesterday, MACC reportedly arrested the preacher, believed to be in his 30s, on suspicion of abusing his position and misappropriating approximately RM12.3 million in NGO funds for personal use.

He has been remanded for five days until April 26 to assist in investigations. - BERNAMA