Bukit Aman Opens Five Probes Into Potential Offences in Tabung Haji RCI Report

KUALA LUMPUR – Police have opened five investigations into potential offences raised in the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) report on Tabung Haji (TH).

Bukit Aman commercial crime investigation department director Rusdi Isa said the investigations stemmed from nine police reports lodged by the pilgrims' fund following the release of the RCI report on July 29.

In a statement, he said the cases are being investigated under the Penal Code, the Tabung Haji Act, the Companies Act, and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (Amla).

"Statements are being recorded from witnesses, both in Malaysia and abroad. Relevant documents are also being obtained to assist in the investigations," he said.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is separately investigating matters arising from the RCI report, with five people arrested in connection with its probe.

The 252-page RCI report on the investigations into TH's management and operations from 2014 to 2020 was completed in July 2022. It was declassified and released last Wednesday.

The RCI found, among others, that TH had concealed the true state of its finances for years, reporting a RM3.4 billion profit for 2017 when it should have recorded a RM1.4 billion net loss under proper accounting standards – a shortfall of almost RM4.8 billion.

It also found serious weaknesses in the fund's governance, investment and financial management between 2014 and 2020, and recommended a major overhaul, including tighter oversight, forensic audits of selected investments, and limits on political involvement in the institution.

The report further stated that four police reports were filed and six matters referred to MACC over allegations including misrepresentation, concealment of information, corruption, abuse of power, forgery and manipulation of investment reports.

However, no one was charged with any wrongdoing.