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INVESTIGATIONS by the Malaysian Anti‑Corruption Commission (MACC) into Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s procurement practices are now concentrating on potential procedural failures after the Auditor‑General flagged serious irregularities affecting RM58.45 million in tenders.
MACC’s Governance Investigation Division director Datuk Mohd Zaki Hassan told reporters the investigation aims to determine whether lapses in process contributed to the irregularities identified in the Auditor‑General’s report released on July 21.
The audit revealed that three of seven UKM procurement tenders, collectively worth RM58.45 million, did not comply with established procurement procedures.
“Investigations found the UKM Tender Procurement Committee selected companies that were not recommended by the Technical Evaluation Committee, the Financial Evaluation Committee, or the Pre‑Tender Committee,” the report noted.
The Auditor‑General also highlighted the absence of a Finance Ministry representative on the procurement committee, a mandatory requirement for tenders of such magnitude.
In addition, the appointed representative from the Ministry of Higher Education was reportedly missing from meetings relating to the three contested tenders.
In November, MACC’s senior investigation division director Datuk Zainul Darus confirmed that five individuals had been summoned to provide statements as part of the probe.
The controversy has also drawn attention at the university’s highest levels. Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, Yang di‑Pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan and UKM’s chancellor, confirmed he received complaints concerning procurement practices at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz and called for authorities to take appropriate action.
The MACC investigation is ongoing as officials seek to clarify the extent of procedural weaknesses and the potential consequences of the procurement misconduct. - January 1, 2026