Former Tabung Haji chief pleads not guilty to abuse of power charges

The former chairman of Tabung Haji (TH) entered a not guilty plea in court on charges relating to the alleged abuse of power, marking the start of proceedings against the high-profile figure. Abdul Azeez faces accusations that he leveraged his official position to obtain an appointment within Putrajaya Perdana, a development entity, while simultaneously exerting influence over a substantial investment valued at RM193.5 million.

The case centres on whether Abdul Azeez improperly used his authority at the Islamic pilgrimage fund to advance personal interests or secure benefits outside his official capacity. Prosecutors will need to establish that his actions constituted a breach of public trust and violated regulations governing the conduct of senior officials managing state-linked institutions.

The proceedings come as part of broader scrutiny of governance practices within Malaysia's statutory bodies and government-linked companies. The outcome of the case is expected to carry implications for standards of accountability among senior management at such entities. Abdul Azeez remains on bail pending further court hearings.