MACC reinvestigates case against former political secretary over RM1.1mil funds

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) said today it is reinvestigating a case against a former political secretary, who carries the 'Datuk' title, over the misappropriation of funds involving over RM1.1 million. MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Abu Kassim Mohamed said the reinvestigation was prompted by an instruction from the Attorney-General's Chambers to strengthen the case for prosecution. "We were asked by the AG to look into greater detail and depth because the AG is concerned. "If a case is brought to court and gets thrown out, the AG's Chambers will become the target (of criticism) for apparently not having discharged its duties well," he said at a briefing entitled "Is the MACC Credible?" organised by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) here. The former political secretary and the director of a foundation, in their 30s and early 50s respectively, are alleged to have committed criminal breach of trust in the sum of over RM1.1 million and cheating involving funds of RM1 million. The misappropriation allegedly involves three foundations not registered as welfare bodies or organisations but operating as a limited company. The two individuals held positions as directors and trustees of the foundations and had allegedly withdrawn the funds in violation of the foundations' objectives. Abu Kassim said the case would be subjected to one of two alternatives: taken to court or brought before the Operations Review Panel which would question why the case had not gone for prosecution despite there being sufficient evidence. "There is a check and balance here and, I believe, the AG's instruction is for the good of the MACC when the case is brought to court. I hope this case can be resolved as soon as possible," he said.