[UPDATED] MACC denies claims of interference in Jana Wibawa probe

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has stressed that its probe into the Jana Wibawa initiative, which has led to charges against several Bersatu leaders including former prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, is done independently.

The anti-graft body also stressed that the investigation is done based on information and evidence obtained independently.

“The investigation papers that have been completed were then referred to the Attorney-General’s Chambers for proper study and consideration.

“The investigation process is free from interference of any party.

“Therefore, the accusations that the MACC’s investigation was instructed by certain parties and was politically motivated were not true at all and have tarnished the reputation of this commission,” said the graft busters in a press statement today.

The MACC’s probe into Jana Wibawa has so far seen Tasek Gelugor MP and former Bersatu information chief Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan charged with soliciting and receiving bribes worth RM6.9 million to help a private firm secure a central spine road government contract worth RM232 million in 2022.

Segambut Bersatu deputy chief Adam Radlan Adam Muhammad also faces five charges over the same scheme, introduced when Muhyiddin was prime minister.

Muhyiddin would be the third Bersatu leader to be hauled up over the initiative set up to aid Bumiputera contractors. 

The Pagoh MP and Perikatan Nasional chairman was charged this morning with four counts of power abuse involving RM232.5 million and two charges of receiving RM195 million in illicit funds. He has claimed trial to all charges.

The four charges of power abuse are framed under Section 23(1) of the MACC Act 2009. If found guilty, Muhyiddin faces a maximum of 20 years in jail and a fine of not less than five times the sum or value of the gratification or RM10,000, whichever is higher.

The four parties whom Muhyiddin is accused of having solicited money from were named in the charge sheets as Bukhary Equity, Nepturis Sdn Bhd, Mamfor Sdn Bhd, and one Azman Yusoff.

The other two charges involving money received from Bukhary Equity are framed under Section 4(1)(b) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing, and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001. 

If found guilty, Muhyiddin could face a maximum of 15 years’ imprisonment and be liable to a fine of not less than five times the sum or value of the proceeds of the unlawful activity at the time the alleged offence was committed or RM5,000,000, whichever is higher.

The Bersatu president is to face another charge on Monday, MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki confirmed separately. – The Vibes, March 10, 2023