MACC finds governance weaknesses at UiTM Holdings after RM37.37m CBT probe

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 1 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has identified governance weaknesses at UiTM Holdings Sdn Bhd during its investigation into the company and will recommend measures to address them, Sinar Harian reported today.

MACC chief commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman said examining governance was a routine part of investigations where weaknesses were detected, even when those shortcomings did not themselves amount to criminal offences.

“Yes, normally when we conduct an investigation, governance forms part of the aspects that we examine.

“Although governance issues may not constitute an offence that can be charged in court, they are matters that can be improved,” he told a press conference after the MACC’s 59th anniversary celebration and monthly assembly in Putrajaya.

Abd Halim said the commission would recommend improvements to address any governance weaknesses uncovered during the investigation, but declined to specify their nature or how many had been identified.

His remarks came on the same day that former UiTM Holdings group chief executive officer Azlizan Fadzil pleaded not guilty to a criminal breach of trust charge involving RM37.37 million earmarked for a large-scale solar power project in Gambang, Pahang.

Abd Halim said the MACC investigation was, for now, focused on the former chief executive, although investigators could widen the probe if new evidence emerged.

“The investigation has been carried out by the MACC since 2023. We acknowledge that it has taken quite some time and so on. But an investigation is an ongoing process; there is no time limit.

“So, for UiTM Holdings, at this point our investigation is focused on one suspect who has been charged. For now, that is the extent of our investigation. However, if there is new evidence and so on, we will continue investigating,” he said.

MACC began investigating issues involving UiTM Holdings in 2023, including matters linked to losses and the company’s governance and management.

The current charge against Azlizan relates to RM37.37 million entrusted to him for investment in a 50-megawatt solar photovoltaic project in Gambang, with prosecutors alleging that the funds were dishonestly misappropriated through payments for other purposes.

He has claimed trial.