Two Datuk remanded for 3 more days over alleged land abuse

GEORGE TOWN: Two Datuk, including one who serves as a government agency chairman, were granted an additional three-day remand on Monday over alleged abuse of power concerning government land, according to the Magistrates Court. The court extended the remand after the pair appeared at approximately 9:30am. The 53-year-old Datuk, who heads a government agency, and the 40-something developer face charges related to Seberang Prai Selatan land sales in 2015.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) requested an extra four days, yet the court opted for three, with the duo scheduled for release on Wednesday. Three other individuals previously held in remand, comprising the Datuk chairman's family members and a developer, have since been released on bail. During the court hearing, the chairman's lawyer, Dr Shamsher Singh Thind, informed reporters that the prosecution cited apprehensions that his client might influence witnesses and documents.

The lawyer explained that the remand was typical, as the chairman's position necessitated precautions to prevent interference with other witnesses and the substantial amount of documents involved. The investigation centers on the alleged misuse of authority during the 2015 land sale in Seberang Prai Selatan.