PUTRAJAYA — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will soon file a forfeiture application involving RM170 million allegedly linked to a corruption and money laundering probe against former prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said investigations into the case had been completed and submitted to the deputy public prosecutor (DPP) for further action.
“This case is done and already in the hands of the DPP. Based on the information I’ve received, the DPP has agreed to file [the forfeiture application], possibly within two weeks.
“This is to allow the preparation of affidavit documents and such, in order to forfeit, firstly, the sum of money I had previously disclosed — around RM170 million — which was obtained. It is up to Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri if he wishes to challenge our application,” he told reporters today.
Azam added that the decision on whether any criminal charges will be filed has yet to be made, with the commission awaiting instructions from the DPP.
When asked when the Bera MP could be charged, Azam said the MACC is hopeful that the process would not take too long.
“I think within a month or so, the DPP will decide. I’ve also urged them not to take too long as this involves public interest,” he said.
Ismai has been called in for questioning seven times to assist with investigations, which are linked to alleged misuse and procurement of funds related to promotional activities under the Keluarga Malaysia programme during his tenure as the ninth prime minister from August 2021 to November 2022.
The case is being investigated under the MACC Act 2009 as well as the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.
On March 3, Azam had confirmed that Ismail was the suspect in the probe following the discovery of approximately RM170 million in cash in multiple currencies and 16 kilogrammes of gold bars in a safe house during a MACC raid. – June 25, 2025