Malaysia’s anti-corruption agency probing ex-PM Mahathir’s ‘UK assets’

Scrutiny of Mahathir Mohamad’s wealth has turned to assets allegedly held in the UK by the 100-year-old former prime minister, Malaysia’s anti-corruption chief has said, in a widening purge that has implicated the ex-leader’s family and close associates.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has been investigating Mahathir since last year after two of his elder sons were instructed to declare their assets.

The move is part of a broader corruption investigation involving the country’s elite, launched by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, a bitter political enemy of Mahathir, who has insisted that there is a political agenda against him.

The MACC was currently seeking “detailed information” on overseas assets allegedly owned by Mahathir – particularly in the UK – Chief Commissioner Azam Baki told reporters on Tuesday, the first time the agency has revealed a possible link with holdings in Britain.

“Our investigations are still ongoing and we will provide updates once we get more information,” Azam told a news conference.

The pugilistic Mahathir, who ruled the country twice as prime minister – including a second term at the record-breaking age of 92 – has repeatedly denied claims that he abused his power to amass his alleged riches.

In January, the MACC revealed that his two sons, Mokhzani and Mirzan, had declared assets and personal wealth worth a combined 1.2 billion ringgit (US$284 million).