KUALA LUMPUR: The Sports Ministry on Sunday was forced to issue another statement on reports of alleged power abuse and corruption in the tender exercise for gymnastic equipment for the 2017 Kuala Lumpur Sea Games.
The Ministry had rebutted the claims on Feb 9, but a recent report revealed that the Bill of Quantities issued to tenderers had stated the desired brands, which could lead to non-compliance with tender conditions.
A source had claimed that this was done to enable the company with vested interest to quote a lower price, compared to other companies, so that it would be chosen.
"This matter must be viewed seriously and immediate action should be taken before other individuals begin abusing their power to further their personal interest.
"Malaysia will host the Sea Games this year and incidents like this are indeed worrying, as it can tarnish the image of national sports," said the source as quoted by Bernama.
In its second rebuttal, the Ministry explained that the claims are not true and expressed disappointment at having to deal with the issue even after providing clarification earlier this month.
"As explained on Feb 9, the Ministry once again would like to stress that claims of corruption and abuse of power in the tender exercise for gymnastic equipment are not true, and it is very disappointing that it has been brought up again.
"Rukun Juang Sdn Bhd (RJSB), which was appointed as the main contractor for the KL Sports City Project, had suggested for a new tender process after realising that the company on top of the list after the first tender process had vested interest.
"As it was more cost-efficient for the project and government, the Ministry agreed to the suggestion and passed the tender exercise responsibilities to the Malaysia Stadium Corporation (PSM). Being the main body for the venues, PSM is trusted with looking into the supply and tender processes of all sporting equipment, including gymnastics.
"As for claims on the Bill of Quantities, contractors have made it clear that desired brands were stated so that tender participants could know that there was a certain standard to match when it comes to equipment, and that it is a very common procedure and not a violation.
"The Ministry also wishes to inform that the new tender is not out yet, therefore claims that it was released a month after the old tender process was cancelled is not true," read the statement.
Secretary-General at the Ministry, Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali, expressed his disappointment over the baseless claims and believes that it can tarnish the reputation of the Ministry and the Malaysian government.
"Reports like this can give a wrong impression to the general public. If any party is unhappy with the process or have any doubts, take it to the authorities so that due process can take place,” he said.