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ALLEGATIONS of misappropriation involving an estimated RM230 million linked to a non-governmental organisation (NGO) do not involve any zakat institution, but instead concern funds raised from various external donations and revenue sources, according to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki clarified that part of the allegedly diverted funds also included collections originally intended to be channelled to a state zakat authority.
"The latest investigation shows that this NGO received donation funds from various sources, including commissions obtained from certain collections meant to be handed over to a (state) zakat body," he said when contacted on Wednesday.
He stressed that the alleged misconduct did not involve any of the country’s official zakat institutions.
"However, these funds did not reach their intended purpose. Instead, some individuals involved unlawfully diverted the funds for personal gain, including purchasing luxury assets. This act is illegal and the investigation is being carried out by the MACC," he said.
The case first came to light following reports that a deputy chairman of the NGO was among three individuals arrested by the MACC on suspicion of misappropriating approximately RM230 million.
According to earlier reports, two male suspects in their 50s and 60s were detained between 3pm and 5pm during operations in the Klang Valley, while another man in his 50s was arrested at the MACC Selangor office at about 2pm while giving a statement.
Preliminary investigations indicate that all suspects, two of whom are company directors, are believed to have conspired in the alleged offences between 2018 and 2024.
Authorities also believe the NGO’s deputy chairman transferred RM230 million into a company account under his control for investment purposes and personal use.
MACC investigations are now focused on elements of public fund misappropriation, given that the NGO concerned had been receiving public donations intended to assist vulnerable communities. - April 22, 2026