MACC probes overseas properties worth RM59mil linked to 1MDB

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has launched an investigation into the ownership and transfer of a luxury overseas property worth about RM59 million, allegedly linked to unlawful activities and 1MDB funds.

MACC chief commissioner Abd Halim Aman said the commission received information on the allegations on June 15 and opened an investigation the following day, Sinar Harian reported.

“The investigation is aimed at determining whether there are elements of corruption, abuse of power, money laundering, as well as issues relating to asset recovery,” he was quoted as saying at a press conference at the MACC headquarters here today.

Halim said investigators are currently focussed on identifying the owner of the account that made the allegations and verifying the authenticity of the documents submitted.

“Once these matters have been established, we will identify the source of funds used to acquire the assets, provided the report has merit.”

He added that MACC is working with local and foreign enforcement agencies to gather information on the ownership and movement of the assets.

If evidence is found, Halim said the anti-graft agency will conduct a full investigation under the MACC Act and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act, including financial analysis to trace any transactions linked to 1MDB funds.

The probe will also focus on recovering the assets if they are found to have been acquired through illegal activities, he added.

Asked whether the wife of a former prime minister would be called in, Halim said MACC would summon anyone relevant to the investigation.