[UPDATED] Tabung Haji RCI probe: Ex-minister remanded 2 more days

A former minister's remand to aid the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's (MACC) probe into the Tabung Haji royal commission of inquiry report has been extended for two days. The extension, issued by magistrate Muhammad Bukhori Md Ruslan Zakariah in Putrajaya, will run until September 8. The man, in his 60s, had been remanded for five days until today.

MACC applied for the extension, which is now in effect. MACC chief Abd Halim Aman stated that the case falls under Section 16(a)(A) of the MACC Act 2009, alleging solicitation, acceptance, or receipt of gratification by any person. This includes the former minister, who was initially remanded on September 2 after providing his statement to MACC headquarters in Putrajaya.

The former minister is suspected of being detained to assist investigations related to the leasing of a Tabung Haji-linked hotel in Saudi Arabia. The Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) report on Tabung Haji, released on July 29, revealed management weaknesses, suspicious transactions, and concealed information within the pilgrim fund between 2014 and 2020.

The report also suggested the need for a forensic audit of specific problematic investments. Conviction under Section 16(a)(A) of the MACC Act can result in up to 20 years imprisonment and a fine of at least RM150,000, or five times the value of the bribe, whichever is greater.