PUTRAJAYA: The investigation surrounding the purchase of an upmarket London hotel by Felda Investment Corporation (FIC) should be resolved quickly for the good of the company and Felda.
Felda chairman Tan Sri Shahrir Abdul Samad, in welcoming the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) probe, said with new evidence found in relation to the case, the matter should be settled soon.
Talking to reporters after a TN50 dialogue with Felda settlers today, he said the company welcomed any leads found that could assist in the investigation.
"We are extremely happy that MACC has found new information on the case. I seriously think that this matter should not be prolonged.
"It is not good for either Felda or FIC, if the issue is further delayed," he said.
Earlier today, two senior officials of two companies were remanded for six days to assist the investigation.
The two men – a 36-year-old property unit head of a postal service company and a 45-year-old director of an asset consulting company – were suspected of having manipulated the price and property evaluation of the hotel.
They were arrested at the MACC office at about 1pm yesterday after they gave statements on the purchase of the property, which was made between 2013 and 2015.
Shahir said MACC's investigations would help restore good governance within Felda.
"Whether or not the money used for the wrongdoing will be returned, I wouldn't know. We just want the matter to end as soon as possible." he added.
"MACC's investigations is also hoped to bring those who are responsible to justice," he added.
Shahir said Felda would continue to work and cooperate with MACC in the investigation.
FIC, the investment arm of Felda, was said to have acquired the four-star hotel between 2013 and 2015 for a total of £60mil (RM330 million).
In a statement yesterday, MACC deputy chief commissioner (operation) Datuk Azam Baki did not rule out the possibility that more will be summoned to testify to assist in the investigation.