MACC to summon Sanusi next week

PUTRAJAYA - The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will summon the Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor no later than next week to complete the investigation papers on the rare earth element (REE) theft issue in Bukit Enggang, Sik, Kedah.

Its chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki, said that the investigation has reached its final stages, but several factors still need to be considered within the context of the law, systems, and procedures.

"Although we (MACC) are investigating corruption and abuse of power, we are also looking into several aspects of this REE issue. With the system and procedures in place, our task is to advise the state government on how to rectify the situation.

"We are investigating this case, which is why it is taking time. We know the public is wondering when action will be taken," he said during a talk programme with English and Malay print media editors on Monday.

Sinar reported on Aug 9 that the MACC had obtained new information but postponed summoning Sanusi to examine the new information or leads received.

Azam said they would investigate the latest information to support the existing investigation before taking further action.

However, Azam explained that the issue at hand concerns the authority to approve illegal mining because the allegation is that it is not a decision made by the state government but by the federal government.

He added that they would inquire about the management, policies, and the way the project was proposed to the federal government.

He further stated that the MACC would review all actions taken by authorities in the past regarding this issue and would treat the Jeniri state assemblyman fairly.

"When it comes to prosecution and systems or procedures, we are usually asked in court. "The MACC is responsible for investigating why Chinese nationals could enter and where they came from; we need to know all of this. Did they come to explore the area or engage in illegal mining?" he questioned.

Azam said this matter needs to be confirmed as to whether Sanusi was genuinely aware of the situation or not.

"This is because videos and pictures show him (Sanusi) visiting the incident area as if he had just found out that someone was stealing REE," he said.