MACC Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman stated that examining governance is a routine component of investigations where structural shortcomings are detected, even if those issues do not themselves constitute criminal offences. “Although governance issues may not constitute an offence that can be charged in court, they are matters that can be improved,” Abd Halim said at a press conference in Putrajaya following the MACC’s 59th anniversary celebration. He declined to specify the nature or number of weaknesses identified, noting that the commission would formally recommend improvements to the relevant authorities.
The criminal charge against Azlizan relates to RM37.37 million entrusted to him for investment in a 50-megawatt solar photovoltaic project in Gambang, Pahang. Prosecutors allege the funds were dishonestly misappropriated through payments for unrelated purposes. Azlizan, who has claimed trial, faces penalties under the Anti-Corruption Act 2009 if convicted. The MACC investigation into UiTM Holdings began in 2023, focusing on losses and management irregularities. While the commission confirmed the probe is currently focused on the former chief executive, Abd Halim noted that investigators could widen the scope if new evidence emerges. “An investigation is an ongoing process; there is no time limit,” he said.
Separately, the MACC is pursuing allegations of abuse of power involving a different former senior executive of UiTM Holdings. A male suspect in his 50s was arrested on September 29 at his residence in the Klang Valley. He is accused of authorising operational expense payments totalling approximately RM42 million to several companies in which he allegedly held a personal interest. The alleged acts occurred in 2017. The case is being investigated under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009, which deals with the abuse of power by public officials. The suspect was scheduled to be charged in court on September 29, though specific plea details were not immediately available in the latest reports.
In a distinct but related development concerning the MACC’s current operations, two corporate figures holding the titles of Datuk Seri and Datuk were released on bail on October 7 and October 5, respectively. The brothers were detained on October 1 and remanded for five days during an investigation into alleged abuse of power and irregularities involving a RM10 million investment. During the investigation, the MACC seized 15 luxury cars valued at approximately RM31 million, 12 high-powered motorcycles worth about RM5 million, five luxury watches, three bracelets, and RM30,000 in cash. The commission also froze two personal bank accounts containing approximately RM2 million.
These proceedings occur against a backdrop of heightened scrutiny on the MACC itself. Malaysia Corruption Watch (MCW) recently urged the commission to establish a special investigation team to examine social media claims that a senior MACC officer received a RM350,000 bribe in 2017. MCW President Jais Abdul Karim stated that while the organisation does not pass judgment based solely on unverified online accusations, the allegations are serious enough to warrant immediate attention to maintain public confidence in the agency’s integrity. The MACC has not yet issued a specific public response to this particular call for an internal review.
The next steps in the Azlizan Fadzil case will be determined by the court following his claim of trial, while the MACC continues its ongoing inquiries into the broader governance and financial management of UiTM Holdings. The commission maintains that its investigations are procedural and evidence-based, with no predetermined timeline for conclusion.
