Former construction manager claims trial over RM14,000 CBT involving Tabung Haji project

KOTA BHARU, September 15 — Mohamad Hashim Mukhatap, a 53-year-old former construction manager, appeared in the Sessions Court today to deny a charge of criminal breach of trust (CBT) totaling RM14,000 from a contractor related to a commercial building project owned by Tabung Haji. The funds, collected as penalties from Kelpile Sdn Bhd, were allegedly misappropriated by depositing them into Mukhatap's personal bank account.

The case, which took place between November 15, 2017, and August 8, 2018, involved the construction of a 22-storey commercial building in Kota Bharu. The charge, under Section 409 of the Penal Code, carries a maximum penalty of 20 years' imprisonment, whipping, and a fine upon conviction. The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) proposed a bail of RM15,000, but Mukhatap's defense counsel requested a bail amount of RM5,000.

Judge Dazuki Ali set bail at RM8,000 with one surety and ordered Mukhatap to surrender his passport, avoid interfering with witnesses, and report to the MACC Shah Alam office monthly. The court has set a mention date for October 19.