Kuala lumpur: Former Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) chairman Datuk Seri Abdul Azeez Abdul Rahim appeared in court today wearing a purple lockup uniform and handcuffs by his own choice, according to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MACC released a statement clarifying that Abdul Azeez had been advised by MACC officers, police escorts, and his defence counsel to change into civilian attire and that wearing handcuffs was unnecessary. Despite this advice, Abdul Azeez insisted on wearing the lockup attire and handcuffs until the charge against him was read.

The MACC emphasized that the choice of attire and handcuffs was not mandated or requested by any party, specifically the MACC. The commission urged the public to refrain from making baseless speculations or spreading inaccurate information regarding the matter.

Earlier in the day, Abdul Azeez faced charges of using his position as TH chairman to secure a chairmanship in a company and influencing the TH Board of Directors to approve a RM193.5 million investment proposal in the firm 12 years ago. Abdul Azeez pleaded not guilty to the charge and was granted bail of RM450,000 with two local sureties. He is also required to report to the Kuala Lumpur MACC office every three months until the case is resolved. The court has set November 11 for a mention to submit documents.