Penang MACC summons 63 individuals, including senior officials, over alleged RM10 million land deal and RM184,000 zakat fund misappropriation.
GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission has summoned 63 individuals to assist in a major investigation into alleged abuse of power and fund misappropriation.
According to MACC sources, the probe centres on a senior state government official and involves two separate cases.
The first case alleges the official, along with a member of the State Islamic Religious Council, used their positions to propose and approve the purchase of three land lots for approximately RM10 million.
For the second case, the same official and the State Zakat Distribution general manager are suspected of misusing zakat funds totalling around RM184,000.
The funds from the Inapan Kasih and Financial Assistance Scheme were allegedly used to settle an asnaf’s housing loan without following proper procedures.
All individuals have been summoned in stages since the investigation began in mid-January.
Those called to record statements include members of the State Islamic Religious Council, the Mufti, the State Secretary, and the Finance Officer.
Also summoned were the Legal Advisor, officers and staff at the agency in question, members of the Zakat Board, and officers from the state zakat centre.
Penang MACC director Datuk Karunanithy Y. Subbiah confirmed the case is being investigated under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009.
The investigation paper was opened at the end of January following a revelation by a State Assemblyman during the state legislative session last year.
MACC has also intensified efforts to review bank accounts suspected of being involved in corrupt activities related to the case.