King orders comprehensive, transparent probe into TH RCI findings - Zulkifli
KUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has decreed that investigations into the findings of the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) report on Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) be conducted comprehensively and transparently, with no compromise.
His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has ordered a thorough and open investigation into the findings of the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) report on the Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH), according to Dr Zulkifli Hasan, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs). The decree underscores the rulers' commitment to protecting public trust and maintaining the integrity of TH, which manages pilgrimage funds for millions of Malaysian Muslims.
Dr Zulkifli Hasan expressed his appreciation for the Sultan's decree, emphasizing the importance of conducting the investigation without compromise, leaving no stone unturned. This decision aligns with the government's pledge to safeguard the trust placed in TH by its depositors. The Cabinet unanimously decided on July 29 to release the RCI report and debate it for the first time in a special parliamentary session.
Following the decision, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and police have initiated follow-up investigations, taking action against individuals implicated in misconduct, abuse of power, and misappropriation, as identified in the RCI report. The RCI highlighted weaknesses in TH's governance, including broad ministerial powers, arbitrary board member appointments, and political influence.
It recommended amendments to the Tabung Haji Act 1995, emphasizing clearer eligibility criteria for board members and prohibiting active politicians from serving in these roles. Over 75% of the RCI's recommendations have been implemented by TH, with the remaining actions actively being addressed. Dr Zulkifli highlighted that reforms since 2018 have enhanced TH's financial position, governance, investment quality, and pilgrimage services.
He stressed the necessity of preserving the trust deposited by millions of Muslim Malaysians, regardless of the ruling government. The Dewan Rakyat convened for a special session to discuss the RCI report, beginning with Dr Zulkifli's explanation and followed by parliamentary debate.
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