THE Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has initiated investigations into three university procurement contracts worth a total of RM58.45 million at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), following findings detailed in the National Audit Report (LKAN) released in July.
Datuk Zainul Darus, Senior Director of MACC’s Investigation Division, said five individuals have been summoned so far to assist with the probe into potential corruption, while document reviews remain ongoing.
In addition to the criminal investigation, MACC has opened a separate governance inquiry to examine procurement management and compliance practices within the university.
“This matter also received attention during the address by the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, at the 53rd Convocation Ceremony of UKM in Bangi today,” he said, emphasising the commission’s commitment to upholding integrity and sound governance in public procurement and bolstering public confidence in the system.
The July audit report revealed that three of UKM’s seven procurement tenders, collectively valued at RM58.45 million, failed to comply with established procedures.
The report found that the university’s Tender Committee selected companies that had not been recommended by the Technical Evaluation Committee, Financial Evaluation Committee, or the Pre-Tender Committee.
It also highlighted significant irregularities and weaknesses in tender processes and procurement governance.
Decisions by the Tender Committee were made collectively, including approval of companies rejected at earlier evaluation stages for works such as the upgrading and replacement of 16 lift units.
The audit stressed that the Vice-Chancellor, as Chair of the Tender Committee, is responsible for ensuring orderly university operations and procurement governance, in line with Subsection 12(3) of the UKM Constitution and the principle of duty of care.
The report further noted that UKM had not appointed a Ministry of Finance representative to the Tender Committee, and the Ministry of Higher Education representative was absent from meetings related to the three controversial tenders.
MACC has pledged to continue its investigations to ensure accountability and transparency in public sector procurement practices. - November 22, 2025
