Kuala Lumpur – A small segment of the public has drawn their own conclusions regarding the National Audit Report (LKAN) 2/2024, particularly the allegations of mismanagement within Pembangunan Sumber Manusia Berhad (HRD Corp).

Former Vice President of Malaysia Corruption Watch (MCW), Chew Hoong Ling, expressed concern over issues within HRD Corp, specifically pointing to governance and investment shortcomings involving levies.

However, Hoong Ling emphasized that since Minister Steven Sim, Chief Secretary Datuk Seri Khairul Dzaimee Daud, and HRD Corp CEO Shahul Hameed Dawood have committed to cooperating with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), the public should be patient and allow due process.

“It is common for Malaysians to make decisions without thorough reading. In reality, the public often acts as the judge in determining guilt.

“Nevertheless, I prefer to wait and give MACC the time to perform their duties and provide proper answers to the public. These levies are public funds contributed by employers from the salaries of employees for training purposes.

“I fully support these levies as they are crucial for human capital development and effectively enhancing workers’ skills. Many training providers also benefit,” she stated on her Facebook page.

Hoong Ling also mentioned that as a provider, many employers have approached her to help withdraw levy funds from HRDC by issuing high invoices and channeling the levy money back to the employers.

“But as a former Vice President of MCW, I firmly refused to do so. It doesn’t matter if our business suffers or declines due to our refusal to cooperate in this matter. At the same time, I understand employers’ concerns when they read audit reports indicating their levy funds are used for risky investments.

“In fact, the HRDC Act allows for investment, but it must be reported and determined by an investment panel that includes a representative from Bank Negara Malaysia, similar to the EPF Act,” she noted.

Hoong Ling also suggested that the transparency and governance of HRD Corp’s financial management be strengthened and improved.

“Let us be patient and give the authorities time to delve into this matter. I hope the ongoing investigation is not prolonged and that anyone found guilty is appropriately punished while those innocent have their names cleared,” she asserted. – MalayaDailyToday