Shah Alam:The former CEO of UiTM Holdings Sdn Bhd (UHSB) has pleaded not guilty to charges of criminal breach of trust involving RM37.37 million in the Sessions Court. Azlizan Fadzil, 52, who arrived in a wheelchair, made the plea before Judge Datuk Mohd Nasir Nordin.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the charge alleges that Azlizan misappropriated funds meant for a solar photovoltaic power plant project in Gambang, Pahang, making unauthorized payments. The alleged offense occurred at Affin Bank Berhad, UiTM Shah Alam Branch, between February 2, 2017, and October 2, 2017.

Prosecutors have charged Azlizan under Section 409 of the Penal Code, which includes penalties of up to 20 years in prison, whipping, and fines upon conviction. Deputy public prosecutor Law Chin How suggested a bail of RM100,000, emphasizing the case's high-profile nature and the potential damage to UiTM's reputation.

In response, defense counsel Hasshahari Johari Mawi requested a reduction to RM20,000, citing Azlizan's health issues, including neurological impairments and a stroke. The defense highlighted that Azlizan's financial situation is dire, with his family supporting his seven children.

The court set bail at RM50,000 with conditions that include surrendering Azlizan's passport, reporting to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) every three months, and not interfering with witnesses. The next mention of the case is scheduled for November 3.

The MACC previously announced the impending charges related to financial losses at UHSB, noting that Azlizan allegedly authorized payments to companies with which he had interests, totaling approximately RM42 million. He was arrested at his residence in the Klang Valley.