KUALA TERENGGANU, Feb 23 — A Terengganu state executive council (exco) member is scheduled to be charged in court tomorrow, following an investigation by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) into allegations of abuse of power. The charges relate to claims that the exco member directed the hiring of his two children by state government-linked companies (GLCs).
The man, who is in his 60s, will appear at the Sessions Court here at 9am, according to sources. Terengganu MACC director Hazrul Shazreen Abd Yazid confirmed the upcoming charges when contacted by Bernama, Malaysia’s national news agency. The investigation centers on alleged misconduct that took place in 2018 and 2020.
The exco member, who as well serves as a state assemblyman, is suspected of using his position as an exco member and chairman of the board of directors of a company to influence the hiring process at two subsidiaries of a state GLC. Sources indicate he allegedly instructed that his children be employed by these companies. This case highlights ongoing efforts to combat corruption and ensure transparency in government appointments within Terengganu.
MACC Investigation and Arrest
The MACC detained the exco member yesterday after he arrived at the MACC office in Kemaman to provide a statement. The investigation is being conducted under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009, which pertains to abuse of position for personal gain. Hazrul Shazreen Abd Yazid indicated that the suspect is expected to be formally charged soon, signaling a swift move towards prosecution. The MACC has been actively investigating allegations of corruption within various state entities, aiming to uphold integrity in public service. Further details regarding the specific roles and positions held by the exco member’s children within the GLC subsidiaries have not yet been released.
Previous Reports and Allegations
Initial reports from Malay Mail on February 22nd detailed the arrest and the initial allegations of nepotism. The case has drawn attention to the potential for conflicts of interest within state-linked companies and the importance of fair hiring practices. The Star also reported on the arrest, confirming the MACC’s investigation into the alleged abuse of power. The Edge Markets reported that the exco member will be charged at the Sessions Court at 9am tomorrow.
The MACC’s swift action in this case underscores its commitment to investigating and prosecuting allegations of corruption, regardless of the position held by the individuals involved. The focus on Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009 indicates the seriousness with which the alleged abuse of position is being treated. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the case progresses through the court system.
The upcoming court proceedings will be closely watched by the public and observers of Malaysian politics. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for transparency and accountability within the Terengganu state government and its GLCs. The MACC’s continued vigilance in addressing corruption remains crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring decent governance.
What happens next will depend on the evidence presented in court and the legal arguments made by both the prosecution and the defense. The case is expected to shed light on the processes and oversight mechanisms within Terengganu’s state-linked companies. We will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become available.
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