Former Finance Minister Tun Daim Zainuddin has renewed his request to obtain crucial documents related to his ongoing case concerning alleged failures to declare assets. Daim is seeking access to a report from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) that underpins the charges against him.
The request was formally submitted through his legal team, Messrs. Raj & Sach, last July. Daim's legal representatives are pushing for the release of the MACC report that outlines the allegations of non-compliance with asset declaration notices. This move follows an earlier attempt made on January 31, which, according to Daim, was met with no response from the prosecution.
Daim's application emphasizes the need for these documents to ensure he receives a fair trial. He argues that under Section 29(4) of the MACC Act 2009 and Sections 51 and 51A of the Criminal Procedure Code, access to these documents is crucial for his defense.
On 8 August's session before Sessions Court Judge Azura Alwi, Deputy Public Prosecutor Datuk Wan Shaharuddin Wan Ladin announced that the prosecution received notice of Daim's application on August 6 and planned to object to it. Shaharuddin also requested that Daim attend the upcoming hearing set for August 27. The prosecution is expected to file an affidavit regarding their objections shortly.
Daim's lawyer, M. Puravelan, argued for his client’s absence from future proceedings, a request that Judge Azura granted. The hearing is scheduled to determine whether Daim will receive the requested documents and how the case will proceed.
Daim, 86, has been charged with failing to declare assets, including several luxury vehicles, businesses, and properties located in various states, including Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Pahang, Negeri Sembilan, Perak, and Kedah. This charge is under Section 36(2) of the MACC Act 2009, which carries a potential penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine of RM100,000 if convicted.
The case has garnered significant attention, given Daim’s high-profile status and the implications of the charges. The outcome of this legal battle will not only impact Daim but could also set a precedent for how asset declaration compliance is handled in Malaysia's public sector. As the legal proceedings continue, all eyes will be on how the court addresses the issue of document disclosure and the broader ramifications for public officials.
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