SABAH Chief Minister Mohd Shafie Apdal said there is no need for him to make an asset declaration again as he had done so last year while under MACC custody.

Shafie was detained by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission on October 19 last year over the alleged embezzlement of RM1.5 billion in federal funds meant for rural projects in the state between 2009 and 2015, when he was a federal minister.

However, the Semporna MP said he will make the declaration again if it is required.

“I have already declared, right? But it’s okay, I will, I will. I’ve already told MACC, but maybe this is Parliament, right?

“I will do it if it’s a requirement. (I did not declare my assets again because) I’m always short on time, but that should not be a reason. I will fulfil this, Inshaallah. I have nothing to hide,” he told reporters in Kota Kinabalu today.

Shafie is among 13 MPs who have yet to declare their assets to MACC.

The other lawmakers include Tuaran’s Wilfred Madius Tangau and Roszman Isli (Labuan).

Silam MP Mohamaddin Ketapi has declared his monthly income, but not his assets.

MACC deputy commissioner (prevention) Shamsun Baharin said there are no laws making it compulsory for MPs to declare their assets, but the declaration is made in accordance with the Civil Service and MP Codes of Ethics.

He said the anti-graft agency will propose an amendment to the MACC Act 2009 to make asset declaration a must for all politicians.

The bill is expected to be tabled in April next year.

Shafie added that he will meet former Sabah Umno leader Saddi Abdul Rahman, who has announced his decision to join Parti Warisan Sabah.

The Sukau rep, who quit Umno on August 1, is expected to hand over his membership application to party president Shafie tomorrow, ahead of the special assembly sitting on December 13.

“Inshaallah, I will meet him when he comes,” said Shafie.

“What’s more important is bringing development for the people of Sukau.” – December 10, 2018.