KOTA BHARU, Sept 21 — A former TH Properties deputy general manager of construction projects pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court here today to abetting a criminal breach of trust involving RM14,000 in penalty funds collected from a contractor for a commercial building project owned by Tabung Haji (TH).

Tengku Kamarolhisham Tengku Kamaruddin, 55, is charged with abetting Mohamad Hashim Mukhatap, then a construction manager at THP Timur Sdn Bhd and an agent entrusted with the funds.

The money was allegedly connected to penalties collected from contractor Kelpile Sdn Bhd for a proposed Tabung Haji-owned commercial development on Lot 273, Section 12, Bandar Kota Bharu, Kelantan.

The project involved a 22-storey commercial building comprising 244 serviced apartment units, four penthouses, public amenities, commercial space, parking facilities, a single-level sub-basement and related facilities.

The charge was framed under Section 109, read together with Section 409 of the Penal Code, which provides a maximum prison sentence of 20 years, whipping, and a fine upon conviction.

On Sept 15, Mohamad Hashim, 53, was charged with criminal breach of trust for allegedly misappropriating the RM14,000 by depositing the funds into his personal bank account. — Bernama