Kuala Lumpur: The recording of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob’s statement at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) headquarters over allegations of corruption and money laundering has been postponed to tomorrow.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ismail Sabri was unable to attend today’s statement recording session which has been rescheduled. An MACC source mentioned, “Change to tomorrow…the time has not been set,” without providing a reason for Ismail Sabri’s absence today.
Media practitioners gathered outside the MACC from as early as 9 am, awaiting developments regarding Ismail Sabri’s anticipated appearance to give his statement for the fifth time. The investigation into Ismail Sabri began on December 11, 2024, when he was ordered to declare his assets. He officially submitted his asset declaration on February 10 and appeared at the MACC to provide his statement on February 19.
Since then, Ismail Sabri has been called multiple times to assist in the ongoing investigation. Last week, he was present for five hours on March 13, almost six hours the following day, and seven hours yesterday. The investigation is centered on the expenditure and acquisition of funds for the promotion and publicity of the Keluarga Malaysia programme during his tenure from August 2021 to November 2022.
Yesterday, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki reported that several new files had been opened concerning the investigation into Ismail Sabri, following the latest information and intelligence gathered by his party. Azam stated that the investigation involves corruption, abuse of power, and money laundering.
The case is being investigated under the MACC Act 2009 and the Prevention of Money Laundering, Prevention of Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001. On March 3, Azam reported that Ismail Sabri is a suspect in the investigation following the discovery of about RM170 million in cash in various currencies and 16 kilogrammes of gold bars in a safe house, as a result of a raid by the MACC.