PUTRAJAYA, Sept 2 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has opened six new investigation papers into alleged misappropriation, abuse of power and corruption involving the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) and its subsidiary, Felda Investment Corporation Sdn Bhd (FIC), with several arrests expected beginning next week.
MACC Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman said the investigations followed information received on Aug 24 regarding the implementation of projects and investments by Felda and FIC management between 2010 and 2020.
“We received the information on Aug 24 and, through Ops Fella, the six investigation papers opened involve issues concerning the purchase and investment in assets by Felda and FIC, which are suspected of involving elements of misappropriation, abuse of power and corruption,” he told a press conference at the MACC headquarters here today.
The six matters are the purchase of Tataran Aras Sdn Bhd in Limbang, Sarawak; the acquisition of Grand Borneo Hotel Sdn Bhd in Sabah; the purchase of Grand Plaza Serviced Apartments in London; the establishment of Felda Wellness Corporation Sdn Bhd; the acquisition of Felda House and Grand Felda House; and alleged misappropriation in the development of the Kuala Lumpur Vertical City (KLVC) project.
“MACC is also reviewing an old investigation paper involving the Park City Grand Plaza property, which has yet to be closed and is currently undergoing a mutual legal assistance (MLA) process,” he said.
So far, 12 individuals have had their statements recorded, comprising three FIC board members, an FIC secretary, two FIC Legal Division officers, a valuer, three individuals from law firms, a Kuala Lumpur Land and Mines Office (PTG) officer and an officer from the Kuala Lumpur Valuation and Property Services Department.
Abd Halim said several arrests were expected to be made in stages beginning early next week, while the amount of corruption proceeds believed to be involved had yet to be determined as the investigation was still at an early stage.
He said MACC also received information on Aug 24 from the chairman of the Pertubuhan Badan Bertindak Generasi Palong (Perbagi) regarding concerns over the quality of oil palm seedlings and the implementation of oil palm development and replanting programmes at Felda Palong 7.
He said the information concerned a development programme reportedly benefiting about 450 settlers, including issues related to supply and delivery.
“MACC gives an assurance that its investigation into Felda’s management will be conducted comprehensively, fairly and professionally, based on the principle of the rule of law,” he said. — Bernama
