KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has launched an investigation into Aman Palestin Berhad (Aman Palestin) in connection with alleged irregularities within the non-governmental organisation’s (NGO) fundraising activities for the Palestinian people.
MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said that the agency has the authority to initiate an investigation based on information reported by the media, even if no formal complaint has been filed.
“The MACC has the prerogative to commence an investigation based on information published by the media. In the case of Aman Palestin, we have already opened a probe,” he told Scoop yesterday.
“When a matter pertains to public interest and is supported by credible information, we will investigate, irrespective of the absence of a formal complaint.”
Meanwhile, sources within the MACC, when contacted, said based on information gathered from various sources, Aman Palestin is the sole entity implicated in the alleged misappropriation.
“Based on the information we have gathered, Aman Palestin is the only organisation implicated by the media and social media for purported irregularities.
“At this point, many stakeholders are dissatisfied with Aman Palestin’s approach to overseeing donation collections. Although we have yet to receive an official complaint, we have initiated preliminary investigations into Aman Palestin, and if misappropriation of funds is confirmed, we will take appropriate action in the near future,” a source said.
Previously, on October 11, the ProMedia Tajdid Facebook page shared a letter from the Perlis Mufti Department dated August 24, instructing the Perlis State Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JAIPs) not to permit the collection of funds by Aman Palestin in places of worship and relevant religious premises within the state.
In the letter, Perlis Mufti Datuk Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin expressed reservations about Aman Palestin’s collection and distribution of funds, calling for more transparency on the matter.
Subsequently, the state religious authority suspended fund collections by Aman Palestin in Perlis effective October 12, pending the completion of a probe.
In an interview with Scoop earlier this week, Palestinian Ambassador to Malaysia, Walid Abu Ali, cautioned Malaysians against directing donations meant for Palestinians affected by the violence in Gaza towards dubious donation funds.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that contributions for the Palestinian people reach their intended beneficiaries, while emphasising the need for direct donations through reliable channels that prioritise transparency and accountability.
In response to the suspension, Aman Palestin expressed its disappointment and demanded an explanation from the Perlis Mufti’s Department and JAIPs, who have accused the NGO of misconduct, corruption, and financial irregularities related to fundraising activities in Perlis.
Aman Palestin also said it may take legal action to safeguard its reputation, authority, and integrity against defamation. – October 20, 2023