Amid Aman Palestin fund abuse claims, MACC chief says only on paper trail, yet to call in anyone for questioning

Shathana Kasinathan
·2-min read
Malay Mail
Malay Mail

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 24 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is only seeking to get documents from Aman Palestin Berhad for now after the non-profit company was alleged to have misused the donations meant for Palestinians under siege in Gaza.

MACC chief Tan Sri Azam Baki said no one has been called in for questioning at this stage, several news outlets reported today.

“The investigation so far has focused on many documents that need to be examined through forensics to ascertain how the money was spent.

“From the investigation, we need to see from the start of the fund collection and how it is spent,” he was quoted by Utusan Malaysia as telling reporters after officiating the International Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption Summit 2023 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel here.

He said that MACC will not summon anyone to record their statements for the moment as it was premature to do so.

“We have received cooperation from Aman Palestin and at this stage, we are still in the forensic investigation phase, collecting documents, studying the audits and checking for irregularities.

“This case is still too early, the investigation is based on accusations and disputes as to whether the funds collected by the non-governmental organisation were used for the benefit of the Palestinian victims and whether they adhered to the regulations of our country,” he was quoted as saying by the same Malay daily.

Azam said there has not been an official complaint but MACC initiated the investigation as the case involves public funds and is of significant public interest.

“MACC has the authority to initiate investigations based on information published by the media. In the case of Aman Palestin, we have already opened the investigation papers.

“When there is a matter of public interest and supported by reliable information, we will investigate whether there is a complaint or not,” he was quoted as saying.

Islamic religious authorities in Perlis suspended a Palestinian peace fund donation drive in the state on October 12, purportedly following complaints though the complainers were not named.

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