Zahid backs PAC move to probe Tabung Haji management since 2017, stresses facts over perception

In a recent forum held in conjunction with the Musyawarah Nasional, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi expressed his support for the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to investigate the management of Tabung Haji (TH) from 2017 to the present. He emphasized the importance of conducting the investigation based on facts and reality, as well as clarifying public perceptions about the management and governance of TH.

The proposal originated informally from several Members of Parliament who participated in the forum.

Ahmad Zahid stated that the investigation is necessary to prevent accusations of embezzlement, as the National Audit Department (JAN) issued a clean certificate, indicating that the audit on TH was conducted in accordance with the Tabung Haji Act 1995. The act states that the National Audit Department is responsible for auditing the organization. According to Ahmad Zahid, the PAC should conduct this investigation to ensure that the facts correct public perceptions and reflect the reality that the public wishes to know.

When asked whether the proposal to establish a special body for the investigation would need to be brought to the Cabinet, Ahmad Zahid stated that this was unnecessary, as the PAC already has the mandate and responsibility to carry out the investigation. He believed that it would be more appropriate for the PAC to establish an investigative body under its own responsibility rather than pursuing other approaches.

Regarding a proposed new Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to investigate TH's management from 2017 to the present, Ahmad Zahid affirmed that the PAC would be more suitable to conduct the investigation due to its clear jurisdiction to do so. He emphasized that the PAC has the locus standi, as outlined in its own duties and responsibilities.