Former Tabung Haji chairman Datuk Seri Abdul Azeez Abdul Rahim has expressed his willingness to undergo a fresh investigation following the findings of the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) into the management of Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH). Azeez stated that he is prepared to face any new probe if necessary, emphasizing his commitment to transparency and accountability.
The RCI report, which was withheld for three years to prevent public panic and protect confidence in the pilgrims' fund, was recently released. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim explained that publishing the report earlier could have led to mass withdrawals, destabilizing TH. However, with new management in place, the public now deserves to know the truth.
Azeez has consistently called for an RCI to investigate alleged misconduct during his tenure as chairman. In July 2020, he proposed the establishment of an RCI to uncover the truth behind the alleged mismanagement of TH. He offered himself as the first person to be investigated to clarify the situation.
In December 2022, Azeez was acquitted of nine charges, including corruption and money laundering, related to road projects in Perak and Kedah. The High Court ruled that the charges were not defective, and his trial is set to resume in the Sessions Court.
The recent developments underscore the ongoing efforts to ensure accountability and restore public trust in TH. The government's decision to release the RCI report marks a significant step toward transparency, and Azeez's readiness to cooperate with any further investigations reflects a commitment to addressing past issues and moving forward.