THE investigation into the alleged transfer of RM14 million within the Sabah Islamic Religious Council (Muis) must extend beyond claims of “governance improvement”, said Umno Sabah Strategic Communications Director Datu Rosman Datu Ahir Zaman.
He warned the matter could not be dismissed as a minor technical error, as it involves the management of zakat funds belonging to the Muslim community.
“I believe the scope of investigation by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) must be widened to include a comprehensive forensic audit of all Muis financial records, bank transactions, internal directives and meeting minutes,” Daily Express cited him saying in a recent statement.
Rosman also called on MACC to clarify publicly the governance issues it reportedly identified in the management and distribution of Muis zakat funds, citing nine recommendations recently submitted to the relevant authorities.
He questioned the progress of investigations into claims that a Muis official instructed the transfer of RM14 million from the Zakat Fund to the General (Management) Fund without approval from the Majlis.
“While Muis has denied the allegation, calling it a malicious lie aimed at tarnishing its image, MACC cannot stop at denials alone. A full forensic review of Muis’ financial affairs must be conducted to confirm or refute the allegations based on evidence, not perception,” he said.
Rosman emphasised the sum involved represents nearly 10 percent of Muis’ total zakat collection of RM141 million last year.
“Every sen belongs to the asnaf eligible to receive zakat aid. This issue cannot be taken lightly, as it directly affects public trust in the management of Islamic funds in Sabah,” he said, adding that transparency in the investigation is both a moral duty and a religious obligation.
“The people do not need excuses, they need explanations. They don’t want promises of ‘improvement’, they want real answers on who gave the order, who approved it, and where the RM14 million went.”
Earlier, Rumpun Anak Melayu (Presbah) President Yahya Ahmad also urged Muis to provide a full explanation to zakat payers, saying he had requested MACC to investigate potential violations.
“What is happening now is a court case that has not yet begun. When it does, the defendant may reveal procedural breaches that could strengthen their case and prove they are ready to be held accountable,” he said.
Yahya criticised Muis for not resolving the long-standing issue through internal disciplinary measures.
“If the official concerned was indeed in the wrong, he could have been suspended or dismissed without dragging the matter to court,” he said, questioning the potential legal costs and the efficiency of Muis’ top management and the Ministry in handling the issue.
He added that mismanagement could tarnish public trust in Muis and in Islam itself. “Muslims have the right to speak up and demand explanation when it concerns zakat funds.
“The reported transfer of RM14.4 million allegedly without the knowledge of the Muis Supreme Council (MTM) and the Zakat Committee must be explained,” he said. - November 5, 2025
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