Anti-graft investigators have begun their probe into alleged corruption linked to former prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
According to sources, a team was sent to the Prime Minister’s Department today to find and seize documents they believe can assist in the probe, focusing on certain projects during Ismail’s time in office.
A highly placed source claimed there were allegations of corruption in contracts linked to promoting the ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ concept introduced by the then-prime minister in August 2021.
“One of the individuals being investigated is a former prime minister from the ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ era (Ismail),” said the source, who is privy to information about the case.
“The investigation is regarding alleged corruption in awarding contracts for ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ billboards and other promotion materials.”
Investigators are still working to establish the exact amount involved, but sources claimed the contracts are believed to be worth over RM300 million.
Malaysiakini has reached out to Ismail for comments on the matter.
Besides the Bera MP, several of his former officers are also subjects of the investigation.
This included an aide to Ismail, who was appointed to a very senior position in the Prime Minister’s Office then.
MACC is expecting to summon Ismail and the former officers soon.
“We plan to call them as soon as possible (to record their statements). He (Ismail) is doing umrah now, so (it will happen) after he returns to the country,” said a source.
The case is being investigated under the MACC Act 2009.
When contacted, MACC chief Azam Baki confirmed the agency is investigating a former prime minister and several former officers over the alleged corruption but declined to comment further.
Yesterday, Malay daily Utusan Malaysia said in its report that MACC is expecting to summon a former top government leader and a former private secretary for questioning next week.
Quoting sources, the report claimed the two individuals were being investigated over the alleged misappropriation of millions of ringgit from a government fund. – Malaysiakini