Rafizi Completes Four-Day MACC Statement Recording in RM1.1 Billion Semiconductor Investigation
Former Economy Minister Says Probe Focused on Procedures Rather Than Financial Transactions
PUTRAJAYA — Former Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli has completed giving his statement to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) following four days of questioning linked to a RM1.1 billion semiconductor cooperation agreement investigation.
According to Rafizi, the statement-recording process involved approximately 131 pages and concluded after four consecutive days of interviews with investigators.
He said the final questioning session ended at around 4.30pm and described the conduct of MACC officers throughout the process as professional.
“I was informed that all statements have been fully recorded, involving approximately 131 pages over the four-day period,” he told reporters after leaving the MACC headquarters in Putrajaya today.
Rafizi also expressed appreciation to the investigation team for their cooperation and professional handling of the matter during the sessions.
However, he said no information has been provided regarding any possible further action or charges because the investigation is still ongoing.
According to him, several more witnesses are expected to be called before the investigation is officially concluded.
Commenting on the questioning process, Rafizi explained that investigators mainly focused on administrative procedures and the decision-making process related to the semiconductor agreement.
He said discussions involved official meetings, documents and minutes linked to the strategic cooperation between the Ministry of Economy and UK-based technology company Arm Holdings.
“The focus was mainly on the decision-making process and procedures. There was no discussion involving money or personal financial transactions,” he said.
Yesterday, MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki reportedly stated that the investigation into the RM1.1 billion investment agreement had entered its final stage.
According to Azam, a total of 22 witnesses have already been called to assist the investigation, including political analyst James Chai, whose full name is Chai Jin Shern.
He added that only two more witnesses have yet to provide their statements, involving one individual currently in Taiwan and another within Malaysia.
The MACC launched the investigation on February 16 after receiving complaints from several non-governmental organisations.
The complaints alleged that the semiconductor cooperation agreement had been approved in a rushed manner and could potentially expose the government to financial implications.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009, which relates to alleged abuse of power or misuse of position for personal benefit.
The investigation continues attracting significant public attention due to the strategic importance of the semiconductor project within Malaysia’s broader technology and investment agenda.
-wilayah.com.my
