Malaysia corruption investigations involve petroleum cargo and police bribery

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is facing calls to investigate alleged discrepancies involving petroleum cargo valued at over RM220 million. Maritime Network Sdn Bhd CEO Datuk Seri R. Jeyenderan has urged authorities to examine reports of document manipulation regarding two Atlanta Crude cargoes, totaling 76,954.325 metric tons, which were discharged at Tanjung Langsat Port in Johor.

This follows recent disclosures from the Royal Malaysian Customs Department regarding importers allegedly manipulating import declarations by understating value, weight, and quantity, or using incorrect tariff codes to evade duties. Industry experts have raised concerns regarding the ability to accurately track cargo movements once products are mixed with existing stocks in storage tanks.

In a separate corruption case, the MACC has remanded three individuals, including a company owner with a Datuk title, suspected of bribing police officers. The suspects allegedly provided approximately RM1 million to various police personnel to protect illegal cigarette smuggling activities in the Klang Valley and East Coast regions. The investigation, which spans from 2020 to the present, led to the seizure of luxury vehicles and electronic devices.