KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has granted a fifth and final deadline extension to former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s sons, Mirzan Mahathir and Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir, to comply with an asset declaration notice.
MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said the brothers face potential legal action if they do not declare their assets by mid-September.
“Our final deadline extension to them ends in mid-September. Once they have declared their assets, we will provide updates to the media.
“If they fail to comply, MACC will take legal action,” Azam said during a press conference following the launch of an MACC programme at a hotel in Petaling Jaya today.
In May, Azam revealed that lawyers representing Mirzan and Mokhzani had communicated with the investigating officers regarding the new deadlines, although he refrained from disclosing the specifics at that time.
Earlier in January, the MACC issued a notice under Section 36(1)(b) of the MACC Act 2009, requiring the two brothers to declare their assets dating back to 1981, the year Dr Mahathir first assumed the role of prime minister.
The investigation into the duo is being conducted under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorist Financing, and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (AMLATFPUAA) 2001.
In a separate development, Azam confirmed that the investigation into alleged bribery involving two highway projects in the Klang Valley, worth RM1.6 billion, is progressing, with 11 individuals arrested and 11 investigation papers opened.
“The investigating officer informed me that they are working towards completing the probe. They still need statements from about five to six more witnesses, with a maximum of 50 witnesses overall,” he added.
In June, highway concessionaire Prolintas Group confirmed the arrest of its chief executive officer and two senior executives by the anti-graft agency, in connection with alleged bribery related to the projects.
The MACC has also arrested five individuals suspected of offering bribes to secure contracts for the projects. – August 14, 2024