A shocking corruption scandal has come to light in Sabah, involving a former senior officer of a state-owned mining company and a long-standing network of alleged power abuse. The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has launched an investigation following a report lodged against the officer, who is accused of using his position to aid private interests, allegedly in collusion with a broker from Peninsular Malaysia. The incident has drawn the attention of Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, who took decisive action by terminating the officer’s contract.
The scandal reportedly stems from a deep-rooted relationship between the ex-officer and a broker who, sources say, facilitated corrupt deals by acting as a go-between for mineral exploration companies seeking prospecting licenses. The allegations stretch back to the officer’s earlier tenure at the minerals and geoscience department, where he allegedly forged this network of influence.
The collaboration between the officer and the broker is said to have crossed ethical boundaries, leading Chief Minister Hajiji to not only remove the officer but also initiate an investigation that reportedly unearthed evidence of power abuse and violations of good governance. According to sources, this termination triggered a wave of intimidation tactics from the former officer and his associates, who allegedly used video recordings and other threats in an attempt to secure protection and avoid repercussions. Notably, these intimidation efforts are said to involve collaboration with certain political entities, adding a complex layer of political maneuvering to the case.
As this investigation unfolds, a whistleblower has come forward with potentially incriminating evidence. Earlier reports revealed that a whistleblower released a video in which the former senior officer accuses Chief Minister Hajiji Noor of making politically driven decisions at the mining company. Alongside this, other videos reportedly show discussions between businessmen and state assembly members about bribery for project licenses. MACC’s chief commissioner Azam Baki has stated that while the whistleblower’s lawyer has hinted at having substantial evidence, MACC cannot guarantee immunity unless a formal complaint is lodged.
In response, Hajiji has remained steadfast, denying the allegations and affirming his administration’s commitment to transparency. He has urged the MACC to thoroughly investigate the case, stating that the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah-led government will fully cooperate with the probe. Hajiji expressed confidence that the investigation would uncover any malicious attempts by those who allegedly sought to manipulate the government for personal gain.
This scandal has not only put a spotlight on corruption within Sabah’s mining sector but also underscores the broader challenge of rooting out corruption tied to influential networks. As MACC continues its investigation, the outcome may serve as a critical test for Sabah’s anti-corruption resolve and could have far-reaching consequences for governance in the state.
By: Kpost
Information Source: Fmt , Malaysiakini
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