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THE Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) estimates that around RM400,000 in illicit transactions have occurred since the syndicate began operating in 2021, according to a source familiar with the investigation.
“MACC is still in the process of identifying the masterminds behind this syndicate,” Sinar Harian cited a source saying. “Initial investigations suggest that agents have been using social media ads and personal referrals to reach potential clients.”
The scheme allegedly involved agents recruiting buyers and coordinating with individuals to register newborns using false information, allowing buyers to obtain Malaysian identity documents and birth certificates for children not born to them.
Selangor MACC Director Hairuzam Mohmad Amin @ Hamim confirmed that efforts are ongoing to identify more individuals and agents involved in supplying infants and forging documentation.
He said further arrests are likely as the investigation continues.
Earlier this week, 14 suspects – including 11 men and three women aged between 20 and 40 – were remanded for five days until 20 April. They are being held on suspicion of submitting fraudulent birth registration forms containing fabricated details, despite the lack of any hospital records to verify the births.
The suspects were detained after arriving at the MACC Selangor office to give statements on Tuesday. They are believed to have used false maternal details in applications for birth certificates and identity cards with Malaysia’s National Registration Department (JPN).
The scandal has sparked concerns about the ease with which official documents can be manipulated and has highlighted the vulnerability of children caught in human trafficking networks. Investigations are ongoing. – April 18, 2025