Tabung Haji RCI: MPs call for transparent probe, accountability to protect depositors

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 11 — Members of Parliament across the political divide today called for independent and transparent investigations into the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) report on Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) after it was tabled in Parliament.

Despite the absence of PAS and Parti Wawasan Negara lawmakers, more than 30 MPs took part in the ongoing debate in the Dewan Rakyat.

Government backbenchers, led by Sekijang MP Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, called on the government to clarify the involvement of TH’s leadership between 2014 and 2020 in negotiations over investments and allegations surrounding the matter.

Dr Zaliha also called on the government to publish a complete report on the progress of the 25 recommendations made by the RCI to restore depositors’ confidence in TH.

The government had previously said that 75 per cent of the recommendations had been implemented as of last month.

However, Bentong MP Young Syefura Othman called for a clear timeline for implementing the remaining 25 per cent of the recommendations, as well as details of the authorities responsible for the reforms.

Meanwhile, Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid said individuals identified in the report as being responsible for mismanagement and abuse of power should be prosecuted, regardless of their position or political affiliation.

“If no one is held responsible after this extensive report, then what is the message that we are sending out?” she asked.

Port Dickson MP Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun said the practice of rewarding political loyalty with positions in TH should end and that the institution should be helmed by competent individuals.

On the opposition bench, Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman called for the establishment of a multi-agency task force and a forensic audit into the 14 failed investments identified by the RCI.

Echoing the proposal, former prime minister and Pagoh MP Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin called for the independent forensic audit to be completed within a year.

The 252-page RCI report, which examined TH’s management and operations between 2014 and 2020, was made public last month with the Cabinet’s approval.

A special Parliament sitting was convened today for lawmakers to debate the report.

The report found, among other things, non-compliance with accounting standards in declaring high dividends in 2017, unauthorised bonuses, as well as 14 troubled and failed investments.