THE Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has shot down former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s request for it to unfreeze the bank accounts of Aman Palestin Bhd, which hold nearly RM16 million.

MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki said this is because investigations are ongoing into the non-profit organisation’s finances. 

“With regard to the Aman Palestin accounts that have been frozen, MACC is still investigating the veracity of the previous transactions and claims,” Azam said in a statement today.

“In view of this, MACC cannot release the funds until the investigation is completed and clarity is obtained over the accountability of public donations amounting to millions of ringgit.

“The MACC views this case seriously as it is a matter of public interest, and will likely set a precedent for how public donations can and cannot be used.”

Yesterday Dr Mahathir asked MACC to release the money to allow Aman Palestin to deliver winter aid to war-torn countries in the Middle East.

Last week, MACC froze 41 bank accounts belonging to Aman Palestin amounting to RM15.86 million.

MACC said it had raided the offices of the organisation and seized financial and operational documents for the past five years.

“The investigation was conducted to obtain information regarding offences under the MACC Act 2009, the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001, and the Penal Code (Act 574),” it said.

“The MACC has taken statements from witnesses and preliminary investigation has identified several issues involving the misappropriation of funds estimated at RM70 million, which was diverted for purposes other than the objectives of the establishment of the company.” – December 1, 2023.