Ministry to probe shortcomings in HDC – Dr Sim
KUCHING: The Local Government and Housing Ministry will carry out a thorough internal investigation on the shortcomings in the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) which was highlighted in the Auditor-General’s (AG) Report 2016 released recently.
Its minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian said he has instructed his permanent secretary Bakri Zaini to carry out a thorough investigation on the AG’s Report regarding housing matters before deciding on the next course of actions.
“After the investigation, we will do whatever necessary including referring to Malaysia AntiCorruption Commission (MACC), the police and other relevant authorities if there are any wrong doings discovered,” he added.
Dr Sim highlighted this when
We want to carry out a thorough investigation first because the AG only reported on what is happening but without investigation. — Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Local Government and Housing Ministry
met at SJKC Sg Apong here where a mass rabies vaccination was carried out yesterday.
“We want to carry out a thorough investigation first because the AG only reported on what is happening but without investigation,” he explained.
Responding to criticisms after the AG’s Report disclosed that HDC paid out RM2.88 million to two contractors for paint jobs that were not done, Dr Sim assured that he has nothing to hide and things will be dealt with accordingly after the probe has been done.
“I am a minister and have my own way of doing things. I even go down to the ground to check on the quality of works of the contractors even though it is not my job. I just want spot checks like that to ensure they (contractors) realise that I am serious and expect certain standard,” he elaborated.
The report also mentioned there was an advance payment of RM16.06 million without any authorisation for an upgrading project in Sibu, resulting in the government incurring interest charges of RM1.77 million.
There were also payments of RM30.40 million made without verification by the officer, while payments amounting to RM20.77 million were unsupported by ‘Payment Certificates’.