Forensic audit needed to determine abuse or governance lapses in Felda, says DPM Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 23 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called for a forensic audit to investigate potential abuse of power, breach of trust, and governance lapses within the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda). Zahid emphasized that a management audit alone would not suffice, as the agency's issues have persisted for a long time and resulted in staggering losses of billions of ringgit.

He told reporters, "Felda is facing very serious and long-standing problems. The RM9 billion in losses cannot be tolerated."

The Rural and Regional Development Minister, who is also Zahid, stated that those responsible should be held accountable if there is substantial evidence, but the investigation must not be used to victimize or humiliate any individual. He further clarified that the government remains committed to safeguarding the interests and well-being of the 225,000 Felda settlers and the broader community of around 1.8 million people, spanning the first to fifth generations.

In response to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's decision to await the full report of the Special Task Force investigating Felda's management issues, Zahid acknowledged that the special task force had commenced its work. Anwar stated that the task force's findings would be presented soon and subsequently made public, much like the report on the Lembaga Tabung Haji.