MACC Records Statements From 26 Witnesses in RM1.1 Billion Semiconductor Probe
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has recorded statements from 26 witnesses as part of its ongoing investigation into a RM1.1 billion semiconductor collaboration involving the government and global chip technology company Arm Holdings.
MACC chief commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman said the investigation remains active and has now moved into the next stage, including efforts to obtain statements from witnesses currently residing overseas.
According to him, the commission is awaiting the outcome of a Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) application submitted through the Attorney General’s Chambers to facilitate the collection of evidence and witness statements from abroad.
“To date, statements from 26 witnesses have been recorded.
“The investigation is still ongoing and we are currently waiting for the MLA process handled by the Attorney General’s Chambers to obtain information and testimony from witnesses overseas,” he said.
Abd Halim was speaking after a working visit to the Sabah MACC office at the Federal Government Administrative Complex here today.
Also present was Sabah MACC director Datuk Mohd Fuad Bee Basrah.
He said that once the statements from overseas witnesses are obtained, MACC is expected to summon two Cabinet ministers as well as a former Cabinet member to complete the investigation.
According to him, the additional testimonies are necessary to ensure that all aspects of the case are thoroughly examined before the investigation is finalised.
“After completing the witness statements, we will record statements from two Cabinet members and one former Cabinet member to complete the investigation,” he said.
In March, MACC confirmed that it had opened an investigation into the strategic semiconductor collaboration between the Malaysian government and UK-based Arm Ltd.
The probe was launched following complaints alleging possible abuse of power, fraud and weaknesses in governance related to the project.
The case has attracted significant public attention due to the size of the investment, estimated at RM1.1 billion, and the strategic importance of the semiconductor sector to Malaysia’s economic ambitions.
Earlier investigations involved recording statements from several prominent individuals, including former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli.
MACC also questioned his former aide, James Chai, along with officials from various ministries and government agencies linked to the project.
In May, the commission disclosed that investigations into possible criminal elements in the case were nearing completion.
MACC also revealed that it had recommended charges against two individuals, although the final decision on prosecution rests with the Attorney General’s Chambers.
Abd Halim did not reveal the identities of those proposed to face charges, stressing that investigations are still being conducted in accordance with established legal procedures.
He reiterated MACC’s commitment to carrying out investigations independently, transparently and professionally, regardless of the status or position of those involved.
