Former prime minister and former education minister Muhyiddin Yassin is expected to be questioned by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) regarding the controversial 1BestariNet project, though the interrogation will only take place once the agency gathers more information. The MACC is currently deepening its investigation into the project, which aimed to provide internet connectivity and an online learning platform for schools across Malaysia.
MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki, during a press conference on October 18, confirmed that Muhyiddin, who initiated the 1BestariNet project in 2011 while serving as the education minister, would eventually be summoned. However, Azam stressed that this would only happen after the commission thoroughly explores the various aspects of the case. “The time hasn’t come yet, as there are still many aspects we need to investigate,” Azam said, highlighting the complexity of the case.
The 1BestariNet project was originally designed to connect over 10,000 schools across Malaysia with high-speed internet and create a virtual learning environment for students, teachers, and parents. Despite its ambitious goals, the project was often criticized for failing to deliver adequate internet service, particularly in rural areas. The total cost of the initiative reached RM2.7 billion, sparking concerns over financial mismanagement and inefficiency.
In September, the MACC raided the offices of YTL Communications, the company responsible for implementing the 1BestariNet project, as well as a government office, as part of an investigation into claims involving fraudulent payment details. The investigation is focused on allegations of false claims related to the RM2.7 billion payment for the project, as well as other potential criminal elements under the MACC Act 2009.
YTL Communications’ parent company, YTL Power International Bhd, has defended its role in the project, stating that it was successfully completed by the time the contract ended on June 30, 2019, and that the education ministry had certified it as such. Muhyiddin has also denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the tender process for the project was handled transparently and that he did not personally benefit from the contract. He stated that he had no involvement in the finer details of the contract, which he claimed were managed by the finance ministry and other government agencies.
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