The investigations focused on allegations that several assets had been purchased or acquired at prices above their assessed market value, potentially causing financial losses to Felda.
PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has recorded statements from 12 individuals as part of its investigation into alleged corruption, abuse of power and misappropriation involving the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) and its investment arm, Felda Investment Corporation Sdn Bhd (FIC).
MACC Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman said the individuals were called up following the opening of six new investigation papers.
They comprised three FIC directors, an FIC secretary, two members of its legal division, a valuer, three representatives from a law firm, as well as officers from the Kuala Lumpur Land and Mines Office (PTG) and the Kuala Lumpur Valuation and Property Services Department (JPPH).
He said the investigations focused on allegations that several assets had been purchased or acquired at prices above their assessed market value, potentially causing financial losses to Felda.
“The Special Operations Division began investigating the matter after receiving information on Aug 24. So far, 12 individuals have been called up and their statements recorded to assist the investigation,” he said at a press conference at the MACC headquarters here today.
The six investigation papers cover the purchase of assets by Sarawak-based Tataran Aras Sendiang Berhad, the acquisition of the Grand Borneo Hotel in Sabah and the purchase of Grand Plaza Serviced Apartments in London.
They also cover the establishment of Felda Wellness Corporation Berhad, the acquisitions of Felda House and Grand Felda House, and the Kuala Lumpur Vertical City (KLVC) development.
Abd Halim said a separate, earlier investigation into the Park City Grand Plaza property remained ongoing and was currently subject to the Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) process.
He also said arrests could be made as early as next week after the initial phase of the investigation is completed.
However, he stressed that any arrests would be carried out in stages based on the scope and findings of the investigation.
“The amount of alleged corruption involved has yet to be established as the investigation is still in its early stages,” he said.
Separately, Abd Halim said the MACC had received information on Aug 24 regarding concerns over the quality of oil palm seedlings and the implementation of development and replanting programmes at Felda Palong 7.
The information was submitted by the chairman of Pertubuhan Badan Bertindak Generasi Palong (Perbagi) and involved a development programme reportedly benefiting about 450 Felda settlers, including concerns over the supply and delivery of the seedlings.
“The MACC assures that its investigation into Felda’s management will be conducted thoroughly, fairly and professionally, in accordance with the rule of law,” he said.
He urged all parties to allow the commission to carry out its duties without interference and refrain from speculation that could affect the investigation.
He said this was necessary to safeguard the interests of the country and those involved, while preserving Malaysia’s reputation and credibility.
