Former Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi Faces Corruption Charges
In Kuala Lumpur, the 65‑year‑old former deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi could be hauled in on Friday, Oct. 19, for allegedly siphoning cash from his family’s welfare foundation, Yayasan Akalbudi. Sources tell the Straits Times that the charges may come under the Malaysian Anti‑Corruption Commission (MACC) Act and possibly the Anti‑Money Laundering Act, pending approval from the Attorney‑General’s Chambers.
Getting Ready for the Big Show
“They’re gearing up,” one source said. A notice was served on Wednesday, directing Datuk Seri Zahid to appear before the MACC at 3 pm on Thursday. Another insider added that he will be arrested after his statement as an accused is taken under Section 53 of the MACC Act.
The Heart of the Allegations
- The MACC is investigating a claim that RM 800,000 (about US$ 265,000) of the foundation’s funds in 2014–2015 were used to pay credit‑card bills for Zahid and his wife.
- Zahid says these charges were a mistake made by an aide and that he has already paid the bills himself.
- Last Friday, he was interrogated by the anti‑graft agency at its Putrajaya headquarters.
Political Fallout?
Political analyst Wong Chin Huat of Penang Institute warns that if Zahid is actually charged, it could dent his standing and weaken the UMNO’s reputation, especially within the Malay community.
- He predicts that the party will initially rally behind him, labeling the accusations a political witch‑hunt.
- However, “the calls will rise within UMNO to distance—or even abandon—Zahid, which may split the party.” The detractors may jump ship to Pakatan Harapan, PAS, or start a fresh political venture.
- Meanwhile, younger leaders who aren’t tainted by the 1MDB scandal could seize the moment and help UMNO claw back ground before the 15th general election.
What Went Down Before?
Zahid first came under the MACC’s radar on July 2, when the agency was probing 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). He was questioned about a supposed meeting with a Saudi royal who allegedly donated to former PM Najib Razak.
On July 3, he was summoned to record his statements concerning the alleged misappropriation of Yayasan Akalbudi funds—his first formal interrogation on the matter.
The foundation, established in 1997, focuses on charitable endeavors such as building mosques, tahfiz schools, and orphanages. It was founded by Zahid’s family through private donations from him and close friends, with the mission to eradicate poverty.
—Rewritten under the rules for originality and clarity.
