MACC to reveal investigation findings of LCS project soon

The MACC will soon announce the findings of its investigation into the failed RM9 billion contract for six littoral combat ships (LCS).

Its commissioner Azam Baki said its investigation, which began several years ago, was in its final stages.

However, the matter needed to be referred to the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) and several relevant parties before it could be disclosed to the public.

“At the moment, my side (MACC) is reserved on making any statements. I will make an announcement later when ready.T

“I have made statements before (regarding the investigation). I have to be careful of the sensitive nature and confidentiality of the case as it does not only involve the MACC but also the AGC and others.

“For that reason, I have to make sure these factors are taken into account first,” he was quoted by Berita Harian as saying at a press conference after launching the Malaysian Corruption Watch annual meeting at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Academy in Kuala Lumpur today.

Earlier today, the Royal Malaysian Navy admitted that delays in the LCS project had impacted the combat capability of the navy fleet.

It said that the government made the right decision to proceed with the procurement of LCS.

The procurement of six LCS was approved by Putrajaya in 2011 following a request made by the navy. The contract was awarded to Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd without an open tender being called. The contract took effect on Oct 3, 2013, and would expire on Oct 2 next year.

On Aug 4, PAC chairperson Wong Kah Woh issued a statement on the committee’s findings, which examined the handling of the LCS project.

The report revealed that although not a single ship had been completed, Putrajaya already paid up RM6 billion.

The first LCS was supposed to be delivered in 2019 but is only 44 percent completed, according to the PAC report.

The report also said the navy’s view was ignored by the Defence Ministry and Boustead.

PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramli earlier claimed that an internal investigation also showed that at least RM890 million had been misappropriated from the project due to fraud, duplication of contracts, and various other irregularities. - Mkini