MACC opens six investigation papers into Felda asset purchases and investments
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has opened six new investigation papers into alleged misappropriation, abuse of power and corruption involving the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) and its subsidiary, Felda Investment Corporation Sdn Bhd (FIC). The announcement was made by MACC Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman at a press conference in Putrajaya on Sept 2.
Abd Halim said the investigations followed information received on Aug 24 regarding the implementation of projects and investments by Felda and FIC management between 2010 and 2020. He described the probe as "Ops Fella," with the six investigation papers covering issues concerning the purchase and investment in assets by Felda and FIC, which are suspected of involving elements of misappropriation, abuse of power and corruption.
The six cases
The six matters are identified as:
- The purchase of Tataran Aras Sdn Bhd in Limbang, Sarawak;
- The acquisition of Grand Borneo Hotel Sdn Bhd in Sabah;
- The purchase of Grand Plaza Serviced Apartments in London;
- The establishment of Felda Wellness Corporation Sdn Bhd;
- The acquisition of Felda House and Grand Felda House; and
- Alleged misappropriation in the development of the Kuala Lumpur Vertical City (KLVC) project.
Abd Halim also said the MACC is reviewing an old investigation paper involving the Park City Grand Plaza property, which has yet to be closed and is currently undergoing a mutual legal assistance (MLA) process. He added that one more case has been identified as pending and will be studied and reexamined.
According to the MACC chief commissioner, the investigation papers were opened on assets bought above market value, leading to losses to Felda. However, he said the MACC has yet to determine the valuation of funds being mismanaged or lost, as the investigation is still in its early stages.
Statements recorded and expected arrests
As of Sept 2, 12 individuals have had their statements recorded, comprising three FIC board members, an FIC secretary, two FIC Legal Division officers, a valuer, three individuals from law firms, a Kuala Lumpur Land and Mines Office (PTG) officer, and an officer from the Kuala Lumpur Valuation and Property Services Department.
Abd Halim said several arrests were expected to be made in stages beginning early next week. He did not specify the amount of corruption proceeds believed to be involved, as the investigation was still at an early stage.
Related developments
The MACC also received information on Aug 24 from the chairman of the Pertubuhan Badan Bertindak Generasi Palong (Perbagi) regarding concerns over the quality of oil palm seedlings and the implementation of oil palm development and replanting programmes at Felda Palong 7. The information concerned a development programme reportedly benefiting about 450 settlers, including issues related to supply and delivery.
Separately, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had said that a proposal for a forensic audit into the management of Felda would be discussed by the Cabinet.
The MACC has given an assurance that its investigation into Felda's management will be conducted comprehensively, fairly and professionally, based on the principle of the rule of law.