KUALA LUMPUR – Human Resources Minister Steven Sim confirmed that Datuk Shahul Hameed Dawood, CEO of Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp), has resumed his duties at the agency.
Steven (PH-Bukit Mertajam) explained that Shahul had taken a leave of absence earlier to allow the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to investigate issues raised in the Auditor General’s Report 2/2024 concerning the government-linked company.
“I think we cannot deny… everyone is assumed innocent until proven guilty,” Steven said during the Human Resources Ministry’s winding-up session for Budget 2025 in the Dewan Rakyat today.
“There are no members or individuals in HRD Corp who have been charged in court. Even for those who face charges in court, do we demand that they step down or take leave during the early stages of an investigation? I think that would be unfair,” he added.
Steven was responding to questions from RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong), who sought clarification about Shahul’s return despite an ongoing MACC investigation into alleged misuse of funds at HRD Corp.
Steven also pointed out that Rayer should have reviewed the relevant details and reports before raising the issue in Parliament.
No Compromise on Accountability
Steven reiterated that the ministry would not compromise on accountability, asserting that anyone found guilty of wrongdoing would face firm consequences.
“We will leave the investigation to the authorities. If anyone is found guilty, there will be no compromise—not only termination but also appropriate legal action,” Steven affirmed.
Background on the HRD Corp Investigation
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) previously revealed that RM3.77 billion in levies collected from employers by HRD Corp was used for investment activities linked to its training programs.
PAC has requested that the Human Resources Ministry present an independent audit report on HRD Corp’s operations by next September.
The Auditor General’s Report 2/2024 highlighted procedural non-compliance and decisions made by HRD Corp’s management that failed to safeguard the organization’s foundational objectives.
The report recommended that the ministry refer HRD Corp’s management to enforcement agencies for further action.
In response, the ministry has committed to addressing the irregularities identified and ensuring accountability for HRD Corp’s operations.
On July 18th this year, Shahul has volunteered to take leave whilst investigations by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) into the company are ongoing.
Shahul in a statement said, “I would like to inform you that I have volunteered to take leave whilst investigations by MACC are ongoing. I remain steadfast in my commitment to HRD Corp.
“While I am away, the organisation will maintain all processes as usual and regular operations will continue to run smoothly to ensure there is no disruption to our services.
“Thank you for your support and understanding,” he added. -MalayaDailyToday
