KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has summoned six witnesses to assist in its investigation into an abuse of power scandal involving the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
This marks the latest development in the case since it was first reported by Scoop on December 1, which revealed allegations of misconduct within BAM.
However, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki declined to disclose the identities of the witnesses.
The investigation stems from a poison pen letter alleging that a high-ranking BAM official received allowance payments without the approval of its Council Members.
The case is being probed under Section 23 of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009, which addresses abuse of power for personal or related benefit.
“The probe is still ongoing. Some additional witnesses have been called. They are still examining issues related to allowances, but this concerns an individual, not the entire organisation. So far, six witnesses have been called.
“I don’t have specific information at this moment, but rest assured, the individual will be called. It involves someone in a high-ranking committee,” Azam said after the closing ceremony of the International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 in Petaling Jaya today.
If found guilty, the individual could face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a minimum fine of RM10,000 or five times the value of the bribe, whichever is higher.
The allegation has caused unease within BAM, with acting president Datuk S. Subramaniam suggesting the poison pen letter was deliberately circulated to stir up turmoil and influence the lobbying efforts ahead of the BAM executive council elections set for April. — December 9, 2024