KUALA LUMPUR – Embattled Human Resource Development Corp (HRD Corp) chief executive Datuk Shahul Hameed Dawood has revealed that his administrative leave is voluntary.
In a statement posted on his Instagram page, Shahul said it was to allow the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to conduct its investigations.
“I have voluntarily offered to take temporary leave to make room for the ongoing investigation by the MACC. However, I am still steadfast in my commitment to HRD Corp.
“In my absence, the organisation will continue normally, and operations will continue to run smoothly to ensure that there is no disruption to our services,” he said, while thanking those who had supported him.
His post was accompanied by a caption: “Hasbunallah Wa Ni’mal Wakiil” (Sufficient for us is Allah, and (He is) the best disposer of affairs).
Earlier, Scoop reported that HRD Corp’s chairman and board members had been informed of Shahul’s leave.
Previously, several government lawmakers called for Shahul to go on garden leave pending the MACC probe.
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim also said he would not shield any HRD Corp officials during the MACC’s investigation.
The MACC investigations were launched after the Human Resources Ministry submitted a report based on the findings by the auditor-general and Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC).
Earlier this month, the Auditor-General’s Report on HRD Corp highlighted irregularities, such as the alleged misuse of levies collected from employers meant for training purposes that were instead spent on investments and asset purchases.
The PAC also revealed a levy collection totalling RM3.77 billion from employers using HRD Corp in various investment activities. – July 18, 2024