MACC records Mat Sabu’s statement in fertiliser supply probe, 37 witnesses called so far

According to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and the ministry’s secretary-general have recorded statements in relation to an investigation into the delays in fertiliser supply in Kedah. MACC Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman disclosed that Mohamad's statement was recorded on September 16, while the secretary-general's statement was recorded the day prior, September 15.

So far, the MACC has called and recorded 37 witnesses to aid in the investigation, which commenced on August 26, focusing on the appointment of a company by KPKM. The investigation is expected to be finalized within a week or two, according to Abd Halim. The MACC plans to record additional statements from more witnesses to conclude the investigation.

MACC believes that there are criminal elements and governance-related issues in the case, but is currently prioritizing the criminal aspects. The agency set aside the governance concerns for the time being, as they are primarily concentrating on the criminal elements. MACC stated that they cannot discuss further matters regarding the governance issues, as the investigation is still ongoing.

Previously, the MACC's initial probe discovered that a company was supposed to deliver 616,015 bags of fertiliser, but by September, only 333,655 bags had been supplied, resulting in a shortage of 282,360 bags. The investigation papers were initiated following a complaint alleging that the fertiliser supplier appointed by KPKM failed to deliver fertiliser under the Paddy Production Incentive Scheme (SIPP) in areas overseen by the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada).