The Penang state government has pledged full cooperation with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) as it investigates allegations of abuse of power involving a senior state official.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the MACC had confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that the state government would not interfere or conduct its own internal probe.
“Since the MACC has begun its investigation, the state government will leave the matter entirely to the commission to carry out its duties independently. We are not investigators, but we will provide full cooperation,” Chow told reporters during a walkabout for Thaipusam at Jalan Air Terjun today.
The investigation reportedly concerns allegations of abuse of power involving a senior official in relation to the purchase of land using zakat funds. The MACC initiated the probe after a state assemblyman raised the issue during the state legislative assembly sitting late last year.
According to reports, the MACC team has visited several offices to obtain relevant documents, which are currently under examination, and has recorded statements from two individuals believed to be linked to the case.
Chow noted that the matter had been addressed during the November state assembly sitting, where explanations provided at the time were considered satisfactory. However, the issue was raised again recently, prompting the MACC to launch a formal investigation.
He added that the senior official continues to perform his duties as usual while the investigation is ongoing. When asked if the state government had summoned the officer for further explanations, Chow said it was unnecessary, as the government was satisfied with the information already provided.
