Penang exco remanded five days to assist in illegal factory probe

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) today remanded Penang State executive councillor Phee Boon Poh, 66, to assist in investigations into a carbon filter-processing illegal factory in Kampung Sungai Lembu in Bukit Mertajam.

The remand, which begins today and end on Aug 16, was issued by Penang Magistrate’s Court Registrar Ameera Mastura Khamis.

Two others, the factory’s manager and the factory’s director, have also been remanded.

Phee’s lawyer, R.S.N. Rayer said he will appeal the remand order.

All three are being investigated under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009 which carries a jail term of 20 years and fine not more than five times the value of bribe or a fine of RM10,000, whichever is higher.

Phee was also represented by lawyer Ram Karpal Singh while the other two were represented by Dev Kumaraendran.

MACC’s Deputy Public Prosecutor, Ahmad Ghazali Muhamad Nadzri, prosecuted.

The Sungai Puyu state assemblyman and two others were brought to the court at around 10.10am.

On Thursday, MACC officers seized documents related to the Kampung Sungai Lembu factory from the Seberang Prai Municipal Council (MPSP).

The MACC and several enforcement agencies also raided the factory Thursday, following complaints from villagers who feared fumes from the factory could affect their health.