Questioned several days before he was hospitalised.
Former prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob was questioned by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) for five hours on 18 February, just days before he collapsed at home and was hospitalised for blood pressure-related issues.
The New Straits Times reported that the Bera MP was interrogated regarding government expenditure on the “Keluarga Malaysia” promotional campaign during his 14-month tenure.
According to the report, Ismail Sabri is expected to be recalled for further questioning. Initial findings have led investigators to identify four of his former aides as persons of interest requiring further investigation.
On 23 February, a day after Ismail Sabri’s hospitalisation, reports confirmed that four officers linked to him were remanded. Three were held for five days starting Friday, while the fourth was remanded for three days and released on 23 February.
An MACC raid at the residence of one of Ismail Sabri’s former staff members reportedly uncovered over RM100 million in cash and valuables, including jewellery, stored in bags and safes across multiple rooms.
Previously, the MACC stated it could not disclose any findings, including the value of seized assets, but did not rule out summoning additional witnesses to assist in the investigation.
The case is being investigated under Section 16A of the MACC Act 2009 and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.