MACC wrapping up probe into Immigration's RM3.5b IT system

The MACC is wrapping up its probe into a Home Ministry project to build a new IT system for the Immigration Department, sources have told Malaysiakini.

Investigators tasked to look into the alleged abuse of power in relation to the project – believed to worth RM3.5 billion – are said to have ascertained that the tender process is still ongoing.

"Initially, we launched the probe after receiving information of possible corruption in a planned project to build an integrated online immigration system.

"It was alleged that another company had already been chosen to carry out the project, which is to replace the cancelled Skin (National Immigration Control System)," said a highly placed source.

"This company was alleged to have no expertise in the field, and linked to a senior officer in the Home Ministry.

"However, the investigation carried out into these allegations found that there was no concrete evidence over said power abuse, as the tender has not been awarded to anyone yet."

Another source said it is hard to prove that any corruption occurred given that the tender process has not been finalised, but added that the probe could be reopened if new information surfaces.

"For now, the MACC is satisfied with our findings that the project is undergoing an open tender process.

"However, if there is new information to suggest that there is corruption or abuse of power involved, we will reopen the probe," said the senior officer.

It was reported last week that the MACC is investigating possible wrongdoing in the Home Ministry.

Sources close to the probe had told Malaysiakini that they received information that the sudden change to the post of Immigration Department director-general could be linked to an attempt to award the IT system project.

MACC chief commissioner Shukri Abdull had confirmed receiving this information, but declined to go into further detail.

On Jan 18, however, Home Minister Muhyiddin Yassin denied that the project had been awarded to a company linked to a senior officer within the ministry, pointing out that the tender process is ongoing.

"The final tender document is expected to be ready in April. Until then, no company was given a contract, as reported by Malaysiakini," he said in a statement.

Last month, Muhyiddin announced that the cabinet decided to scrap Skin, which was to be replaced with a fully-online integrated immigration system called myIMMs Global. - Mkini