Malaysian MP arrested over alleged US$97,000 bribery linked to feedlot land-use deal

ALOR SETAR, MALAYSIA: Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officers arrested a Member of Parliament in Kedah on 4 December 2025 for the purpose of charging him in connection with a state-owned cattle-breeding joint venture.

According to Malaysian media reports, the investigation centres on allegations that the MP received about RM400,000 ( approx. US$97,288) to help secure land-use rights for a feedlot project.

According to the reports, the investigation paper was opened after a complaint on 10 February 2025.

A source speaking anonymously said statements from 15 witnesses had been recorded as part of the probe.

MACC Chief Commissioner Azam Baki confirmed the arrest but did not disclose the MP’s identity.

He said the MP’s statement was taken under Section 53(3) of the MACC Act 2009.

Azam said the individual was later released on bail.

The arrest comes as authorities pursue other high-profile corruption cases.

On 5 December 2025, businessman Albert Tei and former senior political secretary Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin were charged in separate cases involving alleged bribe transactions.

According to charge documents reported in Malaysian media, the offences relate to RM64,924 (Malaysian ringgit; approx. US$14,584) connected to a house rental arrangement between 2023 and 2024.

Both Tei and Shamsul pleaded not guilty in court.

Tei had earlier released videos, documents, and screenshots claiming to show links between several political figures in Sabah and alleged bribe payments for mineral exploration licences.

Shamsul had recently stepped down from his role as an aide to the Prime Minister.

His resignation followed scrutiny over a 2024 support letter linked to a hospital project in Muar.

Reports stated that the letter suggested six contractors for consideration, prompting national debate over political influence in procurement.