Malaysia’s anti-graft agency said Wednesday it will bring criminal charges against two senior former military leaders, marking a major escalation in a corruption investigation tied to army procurement contracts.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) announced that former army chief Muhammad Hafizuddiean Jantan will be charged under money laundering laws, while former armed forces chief Mohd Nizam Jaafar will face charges including abuse of power, criminal breach of trust, and illegally accepting gifts.
The case has triggered a sweeping review of military procurement and intensified scrutiny over defense spending in Southeast Asia’s third-largest economy.
In a statement, the MACC said Hafizuddiean’s wife will also be charged with money laundering, signaling that investigators are pursuing financial trails beyond official military channels.
Neither Hafizuddiean nor Mohd Nizam could be immediately reached for comment.
The commission has been probing alleged bribery linked to army procurement projects, carrying out raids on several firms and freezing bank accounts connected to a suspect and family members, according to investigators.
Hafizuddiean has been on leave since late December pending the outcome of the investigation, while Mohd Nizam formally retired earlier this month.
The MACC added that investigations into two other senior military officers are nearing completion, with case files expected to be submitted to prosecutors soon for further legal action.
The probe represents one of the most significant corruption cases involving Malaysia’s armed forces in recent years.
In response to the scandal, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim last week ordered the temporary suspension of all military and police procurement decisions linked to the investigation until they fully comply with regulations.
Read Also: Former Malaysian PM Najib Convicted Of Power Abuse
Speaking on Wednesday at a defense ministry event, Anwar said the government would also review other procurement decisions, including those already approved or still under consideration.
“They must undergo a more transparent process,” Anwar said, underscoring his administration’s push to tighten oversight and restore public confidence in defense spending.
Prosecutors are expected to formally file charges in the coming weeks, as the government continues a broader review of defense contracts and procurement policies.