Jamil Khir to challenge three charges over RM860.3mil TH asset disposal

Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom, a former minister of the Prime Minister's Department for religious affairs, plans to contest three charges related to the disposal of RM860.3 million from Tabung Haji (TH) assets. His legal counsel, Datuk Hamidi Mohd Noh, disclosed during a mention proceedings before Judge Rosli Ahmad that the defence intends to file additional applications, including one addressing his client's passport.

The prosecution has handed over a substantial volume of documents but requires additional time to submit the remaining evidence, such as banking records. Hamidi also raised concerns about public statements on social media that could potentially prejudice the case and constitute sub judice issues. The court emphasized that only the court can determine the decision, not social media.

Judge Rosli Ahmad has set January 14, 2023, for further mention and document disclosure. In September 2022, Jamil Khir, 65, faced three charges of dishonestly causing the TH Board to transfer funds to Al-Rawda Real Estate Development and Projects Management Co Ltd, a Saudi-based real estate developer, while serving as a minister.

The alleged offenses occurred on April 3, 2015, and December 14, 2016, and August 17, 2017, at the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) in Putrajaya. The charges fall under Section 403 of the Penal Code, which prescribes imprisonment of six months to five years, with caning and a fine upon conviction.