MACC says Bersatu bank accounts seized after freeze

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) today clarified that two bank accounts belonging to Bersatu remained frozen as they were seized after the submission of an order to the banks in accordance with the country's anti-money laundering laws. 

In a statement, it said the order was submitted in line with Section 50 of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (AMLATFPUAA) 2001.

It added that the accounts were previously frozen on Jan 12 and 13 under Section 44 of the act, to assist investigations into money suspected of being obtained from illegal proceeds.

"Consequently, MACC implemented the seizure on April 11, 2023, in relation to the investigation and charges against the president of Bersatu, Mahiaddin Md Yasin, under the MACC Act 2009 and AMLATFPUAA Act 2001," it said. 

The Edge Markets reported on April 18 that Bersatu had written to MACC asking why its CIMB Islamic and AmBank accounts were still frozen after the passing of 90 days. 

The party had filed a judicial review after MACC rejected its bid for the freeze to be lifted. 

MACC confirmed on Feb 1 that it had frozen several bank accounts belonging to Bersatu in relation to the alleged misappropriation of funds used by the government when the country was dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic.

Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin was later arrested and charged with abuse of power and money laundering, and banned from leaving the country. 

The Perikatan Nasional chairman has claimed trial to the charges against him, which he described as politically motivated.