Kamil defends call for probe into NGO foreign funding claims

 The PKR Youth chief says his call to probe allegations of Mandiri receiving foreign funds is better than just allowing such claims to spread.

PKR Youth chief Kamil Munim said he never suggested that the authorities arbitrarily raid all NGOs that receive foreign funds.

PETALING JAYA:

PKR Youth chief Kamil Munim has defended his call for the authorities to investigate allegations that the NGO Mandiri received foreign funding for political activities that could threaten national security and stability.

Kamil said investigating the allegations would be much better than simply allowing the claims to spread online without any proper investigation or action being taken, Bernama reported.

Dismissing criticism by former Bersih leaders that his call contradicted PKR’s founding principles, he said they may have been misdirected by certain parties which had distorted his initial statement.

“I am not sure whether they truly examined the entire statement rationally and fairly,” he was quoted as saying.

Kamil said he never suggested that the authorities arbitrarily raid NGOs that receive foreign funds. He said PKR recognised the role civil society plays in advancing reforms.

“PKR began as a political platform supported by mass movements and civil society organisations that remained steadfast with the principles of the reform agenda.

“We have never denied the contributions and services of civil society organisations in raising awareness and nurturing democratic understanding in the country, while supporting the reform agenda,” he said.

He nonetheless maintained that allegations concerning national security and peace should be investigated.

Yesterday, Kamil urged the authorities to investigate allegations of foreign funds being channelled to politicians, individuals and certain organisations for political activities that could threaten national security and stability.

He said the funds were linked to political movements, including the financing of social media operations and the mobilisation of street protests aimed at creating anti-government sentiment under the guise of democracy and human rights.

This followed a police report about a viral video alleging that more than RM1.5 million in foreign funds was channelled from a US group called Tides Foundation to Mandiri.

Former Bersih leaders had likened Kamil’s call to the stance taken by previous federal administrations towards civil society.

This evening, Mandiri said it will serve Kamil with a letter of demand tomorrow seeking an apology over his statement.

The NGO said if he fails to do so within 48 hours, it will file a RM10 million suit. - FMT