Zahid says open to RCI, calls for forensic audit of Felda losses

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has disclosed that Felda, a Malaysian state-owned plantation company, is facing losses of nearly RM10 billion due to mismanagement and political interference. Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged a forensic audit of Felda to investigate allegations of abuse of power and governance failures, aiming to establish the cause of the losses and identify those responsible.

Although Zahid is open to the formation of a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to probe Felda, he emphasized that it must not be used to persecute or humiliate any individual. He affirmed that those responsible, if there is substantial evidence against them, should face justice. Earlier this month, Anwar said the government would release a report by a special task force on Felda, detailing its problems.

Additionally, Zahid suggested that Malaysia should alter its approach to Islamic tourism by providing a more comprehensive experience, rather than just promoting mosques and halal food. He highlighted the growing Muslim tourism segment, including travellers from West Asia, and mentioned the potential for Malaysia to attract these tourists year-round, including cruise packages offering various Islamic-themed activities during the journey.