KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11 — Pahang had apparently “downplayed” allegations of interference by politicians in allowing illegal land clearing in Cameron Highlands as highlighted by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), say insiders.
Those close to investigations said the state government dismissed the role of politicians and the palace when MACC tabled its findings and recommendations on the fiasco during the state National Security Council meeting on July 22.
The meeting was chaired by Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob.
“To say the state government did not take action is unfair, but there were certain matters which were dismissed outright,” said the source.
“One of them is the interference by politicians and the palace. This is based on investigations, but the state government downplayed it, calling it hearsay.”
He said the state government officers had instead asked if the commission had evidence to back their claims.
“The state government should take the cue of the MACC’s findings and play a proactive role by conducting internal investigations, instead of passing the buck to the MACC.”
Another insider commented: “In certain cases only a letter bearing the signature of a certain politician was submitted to the authorities and no one questioned the authenticity of the letter.
