MACC Widens Military Contracts Corruption Probe, Flags Multiple New Persons of Interest
Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has expanded its investigation into alleged corruption involving military contract tenders, identifying several additional individuals as persons of interest in the ongoing probe.
In a statement posted on its official TikTok account, the MACC said the main suspect, previously identified as a high-ranking military official, remains under investigation but has yet to be questioned due to ongoing medical treatment.
“The MACC respects the individual’s health condition and legal rights. The statement will be recorded once medical personnel certify that the person is fit,” the commission said.
The MACC stressed that there is no fixed timeline for the investigation, noting that the duration depends on the complexity of the case, the number of witnesses involved, and the extent of document and financial analysis required.
“Apart from the main suspect, several other individuals believed to be linked to the case have been identified. Further action will be determined based on investigation outcomes and evidence obtained,” the statement added.
The commission confirmed that asset tracing and freezing measures are ongoing as part of efforts to uncover the full scope of the alleged wrongdoing.
As part of the probe, MACC officers previously visited the Ministry of Defence to examine military projects awarded through open tender processes as well as procurements carried out under the Army’s Responsibility Centre (PTJ).
Preliminary findings revealed that between 2023 and 2025, a total of 158 military procurement projects valued at more than RM500,000 each were awarded, alongside another 4,521 projects worth less than RM500,000. Sources familiar with the investigation said checks uncovered that several companies repeatedly secured high-value contracts, raising suspicions of possible irregularities.
Separately, the MACC also confirmed that it had received a complaint and recorded a statement from activist Badrul Hisham Shaharin, popularly known as Chegubard, at its headquarters as part of the investigation.
The MACC reiterated its commitment to conducting the probe independently and professionally, in line with existing laws and procedures, to ensure accountability and transparency in public procurement.