Ismail Sabri may still be charged despite forfeiting monies - AGC
Published: Sep 14, 2025 5:18 PM
Updated: 7:18 PM
The Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) has confirmed receiving the full MACC probe report on a case involving RM170 million linked to former prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob and his former political secretary Anuar Yunus.
In a statement today, the AGC said the report, related to the huge sum of cash MACC confiscated on Feb 20, was received on Sept 12.
“The MACC has initiated civil forfeiture proceedings against the said cash in favour of the government without any criminal prosecution, in accordance with the relevant legal provisions,” the AGC said.
However, it stressed that the forfeiture proceedings and criminal prosecution are two separate processes.
“Although the forfeiture proceedings have commenced, the AGC will conduct a thorough review of the investigation report.
"This process will cover various aspects, including statements and evidentiary elements of the case, before any decision on criminal charges can be made,” it added.
Earlier this month, Ismail Sabri (above) and Anuar confirmed they would not challenge the forfeiture, and MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki said the monies have been debited into the government's funds.
MACC chief Azam Baki with some of the money seized at a press conference in March
In June, the MACC said it had completed its investigation under the MACC Act 2009 and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing, and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001, and would apply to seize the money.
Concerns of no action
Critics have voiced concerns that Ismail Sabri's move to give up his claim over the seized monies may lead to charges not being filed.
This was after prosecutors let Bersatu leader Adam Radlan Ahmad Muhammad off the hook for corruption and money laundering charges after he paid a RM4.1 million compound.
The AGC further said that any decision on prosecution will only be announced once the review of the investigation report is completed.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to ensure that all decisions are made “independently, transparently, and in line with the law.”
In June, the MACC said it had completed its investigation under the MACC Act 2009 and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing, and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001, and would apply to seize the money.
Concerns of no action
Critics have voiced concerns that Ismail Sabri's move to give up his claim over the seized monies may lead to charges not being filed.
This was after prosecutors let Bersatu leader Adam Radlan Ahmad Muhammad off the hook for corruption and money laundering charges after he paid a RM4.1 million compound.
The AGC further said that any decision on prosecution will only be announced once the review of the investigation report is completed.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to ensure that all decisions are made “independently, transparently, and in line with the law.”
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