Mindef, AG in final talks on helicopter deal

Mindef, AG in final talks on helicopter deal

Defence Minister Mat Sabu says they want to reach a decision on the matter as soon as possible.

Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu.
KUALA LUMPUR:
Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu says his ministry is in the final stages of discussion with the attorney-general (AG) and finance ministry on the non-delivery of six helicopters said to be worth RM300 million.

Speaking to reporters after the launch of Integrity Month and the ministry’s anti-bribery policy manual here today, he said the issue has also been reported to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.

“We are still discussing with the AG, but we want to reach a decision as soon as possible,” he added.

Mohamad, popularly known as Mat Sabu, previously said the government might need to bring the helicopter deal made by the previous administration to court.

Two of the helicopters were supposed to be delivered in July 2017 and the other four by December 2018.

Mohamad also said the anti-bribery policy manual was a step towards protecting and upholding the country’s integrity.

“It is in line with the ministry’s goal of improving the management of finances and fulfilling Pakatan Harapan’s manifesto,” he said.

“It is also to prove the commitment of everyone in the ministry to resisting bribery. We have provided guidelines on receiving or offering gifts, providing information, and conflict of interest.”

He added that the corruption rate in his ministry had dropped although he possessed no definitive figures.

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