THE Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has dismissed claims their officers are stationed at the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (Mitra) and are also not involved in meetings or the procurement process.

“There are currently no MACC officers at Mitra. They are also prohibited from participating in any meetings, committees or secretariats relating to procurement of external agencies,” MACC said in a statement.

On Friday, Mitra special task force committee chairman R. Ramanan said an MACC officer will monitor its funds management.

He said this was to ensure the funds were fully utilised and distributed for the development of the Indian community.

“I thank Azam Baki (MACC chief) for giving us an officer to be present (during meetings) and guide us to make sure no mismanagement happens,” he had said.

Ramanan was commenting on Azam’s statement on Tuesday that investigations have been completed and those involved have been charged. Azam also made recommendations to strengthen Mitra’s management.

In 2021, more than 300 companies and civil society groups were reported to have been investigated over alleged irregularities in allocations worth RM203 million issued by Mitra since 2019.

MACC said it completed the investigation of Mitra funds from 2019 until 2021.

“Following that, MACC has successfully prosecuted 12 cases with 10 cases being tried in court and two accused have pleaded guilty.

“MACC has also reviewed the management to enhance its procedures and transparency in distributing the funds to the Indian community.”

The anti-graft agency also said Mitra has submitted the report on Advisory Practice, Systems and Fund Management Procedures to the National Unity Ministry on February 22, 2022.

“The report serves to prevent corruption, abuse of power and misappropriation of government funds.”

MACC also said its Act 2009 empowers the agencie to not only to investigate but also to examine the practices, systems, and procedures to ensure that similar offenses are not repeated. – November 12, 2023.