PAS has urged Penang Deputy Chief Minister Mohamad Abdul Hamid to step down following allegations that zakat funds were misused for a land purchase by a senior state government official.
Fawwaz Jan, Penang PAS information chief, also called on Mohamad, who serves as the Islamic Development Executive Councillor, to resign from all positions overseeing Islamic religious institutions in the state.
“This is the most appropriate step to restore public confidence and allow a transparent investigation to take place,” Fawwaz said in a statement.
The Permatang Pauh MP emphasized that the allegations are serious, involving millions of ringgit in zakat and wakaf funds, and affecting the credibility of religious institutions. “Religious institutions must not be used for personal or political gain. Anyone who fails to uphold the trust given by Muslims is no longer fit to lead these institutions,” he added.
Fawwaz also noted that the case has damaged the image of the Penang Islamic Religious Department and disappointed Muslims who expect these institutions to be managed professionally and responsibly.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is investigating the matter under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009 for abuse of power, after the issue was raised by a state assemblyman during last year’s Penang assembly session.
MACC has reportedly visited several offices to obtain documents and recorded statements from two individuals believed to be linked to the case. Mohamad, who chairs the Penang Islamic Religious Council, said the council would fully cooperate with the MACC investigation.
