KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) has delegated the responsibility to the authorities to carry out an independent investigation into the alleged irregularities within the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Human Resources Minister Steven Sim emphasized that the government is prepared to take decisive action against any individuals found guilty of misconduct, which may include dismissal or legal proceedings. He stated that it is essential to wait for the final reports from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the relevant authorities before making any accusations, as no charges have been filed by the police or courts at this time.
Sim reiterated that KESUMA would allow the authorities to independently investigate anyone involved, including the CEO, finance personnel, officers, ministers, or former ministers. He expressed confidence that the Unity Government would enforce strict penalties on those found culpable once the inv
estigation concludes.
These remarks were made during his address while winding up the debate on the Supply Bill 2025 at the committee stage for his ministry. In July, Auditor General Datuk Wan Suraya Wan Mohd Radzi’s report recommended that KESUMA take appropriate action against HRD Corp’s management due to identified irregularities, suggesting a referral to relevant enforcement agencies.
Furthermore, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) disclosed that RM3.77 billion from employer levy collections for HRD Corp training programmes had been invested in various activities. In response to a query regarding HRD Corp CEO Datuk Shahul Hameed Dawood’s return to duty after a leave of absence following the revelations, Sim clarified that the leave was to enable the MACC’s investigations without interference.
Sim stressed that the leave was a testament to their uncompromising stance. He noted that no HRD Corp staff or individual has been formally charged in court, emphasizing the principle of presumed innocence until
proven guilty.
In addition, Sim addressed social security schemes, stating that KESUMA aims to register one million contributors for the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme (SKSPS) and 500,000 for the Housewives’ Social Security Scheme (SKSSR) by year-end. He reported that the ministry has achieved about 76 percent of the target, with 760,000 contributors under SKSPS and 480,000 under SKSSR, urging MPs to assist in promoting these schemes.
The Dewan Rakyat subsequently approved the total allocation of RM1,825,469,500 for KESUMA under Budget 2025 through a majority voice vote after a debate involving 15 MPs. The sitting is scheduled to continue tomorrow.