AN internal audit at Institute of Islamic Strategic Research Malaysia (Iksim) has found RM7.4 million from the government to be unaccounted for, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Dr Mujahid Yusof Rawa.

He said it was one of the reasons Putrajaya had frozen allocations to the institute.

“Based on the internal audit, RM7.6 million was disbursed to them. Of the total amount, RM7.4 million is unaccounted for. We cannot find documents and evidence to show how it was spent.

“We don’t know where they spent it, how they spent it. It’s a big amount, it’s not a small amount for an institute that considers itself to be for Islamic research,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby today.

On July 19, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Fuziah Salleh said Iksim’s application for funds was frozen pending evaluation. 

Fuziah had previously said Iksim was a private company registered with the Registrar of Companies. 

Mujahid, who is in charge of Islamic affairs, said the Federal Territory Islamic Council (MAIWP) compiled the audit commissioned by the Pakatan Harapan government. 

Despite the noble visions for Iksim, irresponsible people managing the institute had abused their power, he said. 

“This is disappointing and we have decided to freeze (all funding) and look into the recovery process that can be done,” he said, adding matters regarding outstanding salaries would soon be resolved. 

“We are not neglecting the employees but we are focusing on irresponsible corporate finance (management). This is a sad day for Islamic institutions.” – August 6, 2018.