SHAH ALAM, June 10 — Authorities, including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), should take strict action in the case of an illegal four-storey flat housing foreigners in Sungai Tekali, Hulu Langat, said a graft watchdog.
This follows widespread public attention on the matter, which has raised questions about enforcement.
According to a Harian Metro report, Malaysia Corruption Watch (MCW) president Jais Abdul Karim said the focus of the case should be on integrity, governance, law enforcement, structural safety, and possible abuses of power.
He questioned how such a large building could have existed for so long without effective action from authorities, if it was indeed built without required approvals or valid safety certification.
“Although the premises were reportedly raided in an integrated operation in February last year, leading to the detention of dozens of foreigners by the Immigration Department, MCW (is disappointed) that the issue still seems to exist to this day without a definitive solution.
“In this regard, MCW urges a comprehensive investigation be carried out immediately by the local authority, district office, Immigration Department, PDRM, and the fire department, alongside an integrity audit on enforcement processes previously carried out.
“MCW also requests the MACC investigate for possible elements of bribery, illegal protection, or negligence that allowed the building to continue operating,” he said, as reported by the Malay daily.
Jais also demanded a report of the building status be disclosed to the public to avoid speculation and misinformation on racial sentiments.
He said Malaysia is a country governed by law, which must be upheld by all regardless of nationality, and added that authorities’ failure to take firm action would only undermine public confidence in the country’s enforcement agencies and public administration.
