Ismail Sabri Faces Another Round of Questioning at MACC HQ
Background
Former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has arrived at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) headquarters in Putrajaya for another round of questioning in a corruption and money laundering investigation against him. The vehicle carrying Ismail Sabri, who is also the Bera MP, arrived at 8:46 am today.
Investigation Details
Ismail Sabri is being investigated over corruption and money laundering related to the expenditure and procurement of funds for the promotion and publicity of the Keluarga Malaysia programme during his tenure from August 2021 to November 2022. The case is being investigated under the MACC Act 2009 and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLATFPUAA).
Suspect Status
On March 3, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki announced that Ismail Sabri is a suspect in the corruption and money laundering investigation. This follows the discovery of approximately RM170 million in cash in various currencies and 16 kilogrammes of gold bars in a safe house during an MACC raid. The MACC has also reportedly frozen 13 bank accounts to assist in the investigation.
Previous Statements and Asset Declaration
Ismail Sabri had previously given a statement to the MACC in January last year regarding the use of RM700 million for government publicity during his administration. On February 10 this year, he submitted his asset declaration before his statement was recorded on February 19.
Health Issues and Rescheduling
Ismail Sabri was initially scheduled to appear on March 5 to provide his statement but was unable to do so due to health issues and was issued a medical certificate. He gave his statement yesterday after his medical leave ended on March 12.
Previous Investigations
Earlier, the media reported that the MACC had recorded statements from 32 witnesses and detained four former aides of Ismail Sabri in connection with the investigation.
Conclusion
Ismail Sabri’s corruption case is a serious matter, and it is essential that he cooperate fully with the investigation to clear his name. The public expects transparency and accountability from its leaders, and Ismail Sabri must demonstrate that he is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Ismail Sabri being investigated for?
A: Ismail Sabri is being investigated for corruption and money laundering related to the expenditure and procurement of funds for the promotion and publicity of the Keluarga Malaysia programme.
Q: How much money was discovered in the MACC raid?
A: Approximately RM170 million in cash in various currencies and 16 kilogrammes of gold bars were discovered during the MACC raid.
Q: How many bank accounts have been frozen by the MACC?
A: 13 bank accounts have been frozen by the MACC to assist in the investigation.
Q: How many former aides of Ismail Sabri were detained in connection with the investigation?
A: Four former aides of Ismail Sabri were detained by the MACC in connection with the investigation.