Kedah fertiliser probe: MACC records statements from Mohamad Sabu, ministry sec-gen

 

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has recorded Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu's statement to assist in an investigation into alleged irregularities and delays in the supply of fertiliser in Kedah. — BERNAMA

KAJANG: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has recorded Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu's statement to assist in an investigation into alleged irregularities and delays in the supply of fertiliser in Kedah.

Its chief commissioner, Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman, also confirmed that the commission had recorded a statement from the ministry's secretary-general, Datuk Isham Ishak, in connection with the case.

Abd Halim said the MACC recorded statements from Mohamad and Isham on Sept 15 and 16, respectively.

"To date, statements have been recorded from 37 people to assist in the investigation, which began on Aug 26, concerning the appointment of a company by the ministry.

"The investigation is still ongoing but has reached its final stage and is expected to be concluded within another week or two," he said at a press conference after launching the MACC Shooting Programme with the Media at Kajang Prison College today.

Also present were Media Prima Bhd News and Current Affairs deputy group managing editor Datuk Farrah Naz Abd Karim and New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd chief operating officer Luqman Adrine Ja'afar.

MACC chief commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman (centre) with Media Prima Bhd News and Current Affairs Deputy Group Managing Editor Datuk Farrah Naz Abd Karim during the programme at the Kajang Prison College today. - NSTP/HARI ANGGARA

Abd Halim said MACC would also record statements from several more witnesses to complete the investigation.

He said the investigation was being conducted under Section 471 of the Penal Code concerning the use of documents known or believed to be false.

MACC is currently focusing on criminal elements and governance issues.

"There are indeed criminal elements involved, as well as governance issues.

"However, we are setting aside the governance aspect for now as we are focusing on the criminal aspect.

"I cannot comment further as the investigation is still ongoing," he said.

It was previously reported that preliminary MACC investigations found that during the season in question, a company was supposed to supply 616,015 bags of fertiliser, but only 333,655 bags had been supplied as of this month, leaving a shortfall of 282,360 bags.

The case was opened for investigation on Aug 26 following allegations that the fertiliser supplier appointed by the ministry had failed to supply, deliver and distribute Fertiliser 3 under the Padi Production Incentive Scheme (SIPP) in the Mada area. - NST