In a recent court proceeding, Nur Kesuma Kartini Zahir, a 41-year-old company owner of Aisy Maju Abadi Trading, pleaded not guilty to seven charges of submitting false documents to the Social Security Organisation (Socso) in an attempt to claim incentives totalling RM24,500 under the Penjana Kerjaya 2.0 (Penjana) program. The alleged incident took place at the Socso office in Jalan Teluk Wanjah, Alor Setar, on June 22, 2021.
According to the charges, Nur Kesuma Kartini Zahir is accused of submitting seven employee verification forms that contained fabricated details of seven individuals who were not actual employees of her company. The prosecution contends that this was done with the intention to deceive and mislead Socso in an effort to wrongfully obtain incentives under the Penjana program.
If convicted under Section 18 of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009, each charge carries a maximum penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment and a fine, which is determined as either five times the value of the false claims or RM10,000, whichever amount is higher.
During the court proceeding, Justice Rohatul Akmar Abdullah granted bail for the accused, setting it at RM10,000 for all seven charges. The case is scheduled for retention on December 5.
The prosecution was led by MACC prosecuting officer S Sujatha, while the accused was represented by lawyer Ummi Kalthum Zakaria.
The Penjana Kerjaya 2.0 (Penjana) program was introduced as part of the government's economic recovery plan in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. It aimed to stimulate job creation and provide financial incentives to employers who hire additional employees or offer training to existing staff.
Cases of fraudulent claims undermine the integrity of such incentive programs and can have significant consequences for those found guilty. The legal system in Malaysia takes a stern stance against individuals who attempt to exploit government initiatives for personal gain.
It is important for all stakeholders, including employers and employees, to adhere to the highest standards of honesty and transparency when participating in government schemes and programs. By doing so, they contribute to the overall success and effectiveness of initiatives designed to support economic recovery and growth.
The upcoming court proceedings will shed light on the details of the alleged false claims made by Nur Kesuma Kartini Zahir and determine the appropriate legal consequences if she is found guilty. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining integrity and accountability in all dealings, particularly when it comes to government initiatives aimed at benefiting the broader community and economy.
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