Dapatan RCI TH perlu disusuli siasatan penguat kuasa, kata Armizan

RCI's investigation into the Tabung Haji (TH) organization, specifically regarding its management and operations between 2014 and 2020, must be followed by a thorough investigation into power-enhancing agencies in a clear, impartial, and professional manner, says Armizan Mohd Ali. The issue of TH's management and operations has been a contentious matter for quite some time, leading to widespread allegations of fitnah (slander) from various parties.

Armizan emphasizes that this prolonged dispute has confused many citizens, making it difficult to determine who are the actual victims and who are the perpetrators. Consequently, a significant portion of the population is now uncertain about the true situation. Moreover, this lengthy dispute has overshadowed two more crucial issues: the need to save TH, which manages funds for 9.7 million depositors, including 597,983 from Sabah, and the use of public funds for the same purpose.

While this action is necessary, the implications of the burden it places are significant and will endure for a long time. In essence, these financial burdens have limited the additional fiscal space required to build more infrastructure and provide extra living assistance to the public. Armizan asserts that any subsequent action, such as investigating power-enhancing agencies, must be conducted with clarity, impartiality, and a high level of professionalism to ensure justice for all and to prevent any party from being harmed.

Furthermore, Armizan highlights concerns regarding the integrity of the audit report presented to the Jemaah Menteri, Parliament, and the public. He calls upon the government to address the important audit issues outlined in Articles 105, 106, and 107 of the Constitution, by providing clear parameters for the responsibility and mandate of the State Auditor General.

During the current administration period, Armizan notes that one change in the audit report process is that the findings of each State Auditor General Report (LKAN) must not only be reported in Parliament, but there is now room for debate on each report, making it a regular agenda item in parliamentary meetings. In June 2023, such LKANs have been discussed openly, and Armizan himself has previously addressed audit-related issues involving KPDN's (Central Audit Department) responsibility.

Armizan urges the government to introduce comprehensive legislation and governance changes to prevent the 'goli ganti, tutup ganti' (dig a hole, cover it up) practice in financial management of religious and government bodies. He warns that financial decisions made for short-term popularity can lead to a greater financial burden on the nation in the future.

"Digging a hole by offering short-term popularity to the public may create a deep hole, widening the gap between income and national debt. This practice must be eliminated as it is a disease that will eventually destroy the future of the nation and its people, especially the coming generations," he warns.