KUALA LUMPUR: The investigation into YTL Communications Sdn Bhd relating to the 1BestariNet project is transparent and professional, with no external interference, said the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.
In a statement, the graft busters said its probe into the company, involving the RM4.07 billion 1BestariNet service tender from the Education Ministry is being conducted transparently, fairly and professionally, without any interference from other parties.
"This investigation is based on complaints received, involving allegations of corruption, mismanagement and abuse of power and violation of laws, including the MACC Act 2009.
"The probe is also informed by the findings of the Government Governance, Procurement and Finance Investigation Committee (JKSTUPKK) report, received in August, as well as the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report.
"These reports revealed weaknesses such as limited broadband coverage, technological infrastructure shortcomings and incomplete school coverage," read the statement.
MACC added that public feedback and complaints highlighted that the project failed to provide the required broadband speed for more efficient school learning.
"Additionally, the 1BestariNet service tender was initially planned for 15 years, involving RM4.07 billion, but was shortened to seven years and six months without any reduction in contract value.
"Despite the service not meeting its objectives, YTL is reportedly still making claims to the ministry, necessitating detailed investigations.
"To date, the government is expected to bear RM176 million claimed by YTL, though this has not yet been verified, alongside losses of RM10.8 million in telecommunications tower rental since 2019."
The MACC added that the timing of the investigation, following the project's termination in 2019, is not in question, as the MACC must investigate professionally upon receiving new information, particularly on the use of government funds for national development.
It also called for the public to avoid making speculations as corruption, mismanagement and abuse of power cannot be compromised.
On Wednesday (Sept 4), the graft busters launched an investigation into a payment claim related to the Education Ministry's 1BestariNet service tender.
Sources disclosed that MACC conducted raids at a government office and the YTL Communications Sdn Bhd office in Kuala Lumpur.
Several documents were seized, and the commission is in the process of identifying witnesses to assist in the investigation.