A former director of a government agency in Sabah has been arrested by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) for allegedly accepting bribes totaling RM110,000, including some rather unusual “perks.”

The 50-something man was detained around 2.30pm on Tuesday at the MACC office in Kota Kinabalu when he showed up to give a statement.

The suspect apparently had been demanding kickbacks from companies awarded supply contracts from his former workplace. 

What’s raising eyebrows isn’t just the bribes themselves but what he reportedly accepted: a washing machine, laptops, tablets, smartphones, gym equipment, car accessories, and, most curiously, an electric guitar. 

He’s also suspected of asking to pay for a motorcycle.

“Initial investigations suggest the suspect claimed the bribes were for his subordinates, but the items don’t exactly scream ‘team effort,’” said a source close to the probe.

Sabah MACC director Datuk S Karunanithy confirmed the arrest and said the items have been seized on Wednesday. 

The case is being investigated under Section 17(a) of the MACC Act 2009.

The suspect will be released on MACC bail after his statement is recorded. – January 22, 2025.