Penang: Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) president Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid said he is prepared to give a statement to assist investigations into allegations of abuse of power involving a senior state government official related to the use of zakat funds.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad, who is also Deputy Chief Minister I, stated that MAINPP and Zakat MAINPP have given full cooperation to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). He emphasized that the council, along with its secretary, has provided all relevant documents to the authorities, and several officers have been called in by the MACC to assist with the investigation.

'At this point, I have not yet been called by the MACC, but I am ready to do so and to fully cooperate, as the process is transparent and all procedures are being followed,' Mohamad mentioned during the Zakat Fitrah amil (collectors) accreditation ceremony and the state government's Ihya Ramadan contribution presentation.

The comments come in light of the state MACC's ongoing investigation into allegations concerning the misuse of zakat funds for land purchases by a senior official. The MACC has been actively gathering evidence, visiting several offices, and recording statements from two individuals believed to be associated with the case.

Last Saturday, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow assured that the state government is allowing the MACC complete freedom to conduct an independent investigation into the allegations, refraining from any internal probes to ensure impartiality.