THE Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has started investigations into allegations that RM700 million was spent on promotional and publicity to showcase the government’s achievements during the last two administrations from 2020 to 2022.

A source said the MACC went to the Finance Ministry and Prime Minister’s Department today to start investigations and gather documents related to the allegations.

The source added that investigations were based on Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s response to a question from Batu MP P. Prabakaran who was seeking an explanation on how much was spent by the government for promotional activities since 2020.

“The MACC took a proactive decision to investigate recent revelation that a whopping RM700 million was spent for promotional and publicity purposes. 

“The expenditure included publicity initiatives carried out to promote the achievements of the government through all media platforms including print, digital media and television from 2020 to 2022,” said the source.

The source added that the initial investigation was to determine how the money was spent and whether proper procedures were adhered to.

Following Anwar’s statement, Communication Minister Fahmi Fadzil said on social media platform X that the public has the right to know how the RM700 million sum was spent.

Meanwhile, MACC senior investigations director Hishamuddin Hashim confirmed news of the investigations but refused to reveal further details. – Bernama, January 2, 2024.