The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has announced plans to carefully monitor the allocation of RM320 million (US$76.7 million) for tasks aimed at addressing water provide points in Sabah. MACC chief Azam Baki has instructed the Sabah MACC to collaborate with the state government in overseeing the funds and their associated projects, emphasising the importance of spending the cash properly and adhering to authorized processes.
Azam Baki highlighted the seriousness with which the MACC views the matter, citing a number of cases involving Sabah’s water provide which were dropped at court docket. The agency will work along with the state authorities to observe the tasks and works that will be carried out utilizing the allocation, as the problem of water in Sabah is a matter of great concern.
The announcement of the RM320 million allocation followed a latest meeting between Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Chief Minister Hajiji Noor in Putrajaya, the place they discussed the long-standing water downside within the state.
Regarding the appointment of the State Water Department (JANS) director, Azam Baki stated that the choice ultimately lies with the Sabah government. The present JANS director, Suhaimi Asbullah, lately testified to receiving RM1.6 million (US$384,000) in commission cash from the Sabah watergate scandal. Complete , a former JANS Beaufort engineer, reportedly returned the money to MACC voluntarily in 2016.
Azam Baki stated that if the state has carried out a full vetting of Suhaimi and located him to be away from any corruption, it is their determination whether to deem him fit for the submit. The MACC can only advise and provide their thoughts on the matter, leaving the ultimate decision to the related events..