Police take financial documents and records from Mandiri, Hayat

On a recent visit to their shared office, 20 police officers sought financial documents from civil society groups Mandiri and Hayat. In a statement, the organisations revealed they had provided audit reports, company registration documents, staff lists, payroll and EPF contribution records, tax documents, media statements, Hayat's bank statements and other financial records. Additionally, they handed over a computer and a USB drive containing Hayat's financial information.

Despite fully cooperating with the operation, Mandiri and Hayat expressed confusion over the investigating officer's inability to explain the basis or purpose of the investigation. Their lawyer requested a meeting with the officer for further clarification, but after an hour, it was announced that the officer could not attend. The groups asserted that they have not committed any crime and maintain that this investigation is a form of continued pressure.

The operation unfolded shortly after Mandiri executive director Amir Hadi reported that his personal bank account had been frozen under the anti-money laundering law. Similarly, the personal accounts of Mandiri finance director Dobby Chew and Hayat, an NGO managed by Chew, were frozen. Neither Hadi nor Chew received any notification or explanation for the restrictions, nor were they summoned for questioning. Hadi was also barred from leaving the country.

This further action came after Chew faced difficulties returning from Jakarta, as he was informed of a travel restriction imposed by Bukit Aman, which was eventually lifted, allowing him to re-enter Malaysia.