FORMER chairman of a regional Muslim welfare organisation Mohd Hakim Mohd Nor, 39 pleaded not guilty at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court on Monday to charges of misappropriating RM207,000 intended for humanitarian missions in Myanmar, Yemen, Syria and Palestine.
The funds, donated for charitable purposes in collaboration with other non-governmental organisations (NGOs), were deposited at a bank branch on Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin on 27 December 2019, prosecutors said.
Appearing in court wearing a black shirt, Mohd Hakim faces allegations of dishonestly misusing the NGO’s money while serving as chairman. If convicted under Section 403 of the Penal Code, he could face between six months and five years’ imprisonment, whipping, and a fine.
During proceedings, Deputy Public Prosecutor Asmaa’ Zamri recommended bail of RM50,000 with one surety, along with conditions requiring the accused to report to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), surrender his passport, and refrain from interfering with prosecution witnesses.
Mohd Hakim’s defence counsel, Azizzul Shariman Mat Yusoff, argued that the proposed bail amount was excessive. He highlighted the accused’s full cooperation throughout the investigation and his early arrival at court at 8 a.m., demonstrating a low flight risk.
“Client will face further charges in Melaka and Perak on Tuesday and Wednesday, so I request that the bail be set at a more reasonable level to allow him to prepare for those proceedings,” Azizzul told the court.
After hearing both sides, Judge Azrul Darus granted bail at RM10,000 with one surety and approved the additional conditions proposed by the prosecution. The case has been scheduled for mention again on 11 March.
The case forms part of a broader investigation by the SPRM into alleged embezzlement of public donations totalling RM26 million from the NGO.
Previous arrests included the organisation’s chairman, secretary, treasurer, and finance officer under Operation Serantau.
MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki revealed that over RM8 million in assets had been seized, including jewellery worth RM100,000, cash exceeding RM1 million, cryptocurrency accounts valued at RM650,000, and four properties collectively valued at over RM1.4 million.
Authorities say the alleged embezzlement had been ongoing since 2015, underscoring concerns over transparency and accountability in charitable organisations handling public donations. - January 12, 2026
