Kuala lumpur: A former director-general of the Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA) appeared at the Magistrate's Court today for remand proceedings related to an investigation into alleged abuse of power. The investigation concerns the appointment of a developer for a capital city project and the sale of land owned by the statutory body. The individual, in his late 60s, arrived at 9:15 am, escorted by Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officers, and was clad in a green collared shirt.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the former director-general was detained at 4 pm yesterday alongside another individual in his 50s. Both were summoned to the MACC headquarters to provide their statements. The MACC recently initiated seven investigation papers addressing allegations of misappropriation, abuse of power, and corruption involving FELDA and its subsidiary, FELDA Investment Corporation Sdn Bhd (FIC).

MACC chief commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman highlighted that the comprehensive investigation, dubbed 'OPS FELLA', is examining investment transactions and asset acquisitions by FELDA and FIC management over a decade, from 2010 to 2020. Out of the seven investigation papers, six were newly opened on August 24, while one, an older case, is still active and undergoing the Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) process.

The investigations encompass various issues, including investments in Syarikat Tataran Aras Sdn Bhd in Sarawak, the acquisition of Grand Borneo Hotel Sdn Bhd in Sabah, and the purchase of Grand Plaza Service Apartments in London. Additionally, the probe scrutinizes the establishment of Felda Wellness Corporation Sdn Bhd, the acquisition of Felda House and Grand Felda House, and alleged misappropriation related to the Kuala Lumpur Vertical City (KLVC) project.

An ongoing investigation regarding the Park City Grand Plaza property is also under review, with the MLA process being pursued concurrently.