Maritime industry expert urges clearer timelines for probes, says prolonged uncertainty hurts businesses

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 8 — Maritime industry expert Datuk Seri R. Jeyenderan has urged for clearer timelines in investigations into corruption and misconduct allegations, warning that prolonged uncertainty can harm businesses. He argued that while enforcement agencies must conduct thorough probes, complainants should be informed of progress and outcomes within a reasonable timeframe.

Jeyenderan stressed this was especially crucial in matters affecting businesses, government revenue, regulatory compliance, and the maritime industry. "Despite receiving updates from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) via auto-generated emails and SMS messages in June, I have yet to receive a written explanation on the investigation's status," he stated.

The businessman, with over 30 years of experience in the maritime sector, highlighted the difficulties in commercial decision-making and operational planning due to the lack of clear updates. He respected the MACC's investigative process and provided requested documents, having lodged a report on June 5 over alleged discrepancies in bills of lading and the transport of petroleum cargo at Tanjung Langsat Port, worth millions of ringgit.

Jeyenderan emphasized that setting timelines does not mean accelerating investigations or compromising due process; it's about maintaining accountability while allowing investigators to establish facts. He advocated for transparent communication and proper documentation of investigation outcomes to strengthen public confidence in enforcement agencies, especially in corruption cases.

Jeyenderan noted that the MACC had informed him the report was received and referred to its Information Assessment Committee, with the investigation ongoing.