FGV CEO holds four hour meeting with MACC (Updated)

PUTRAJAYA: Felda Global Ventures Holdings Bhd (FGV) CEO Datuk Zakaria Arshad, who was forced to take a leave of absence, said his meeting with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) today was on a voluntary basis.
The embattled CEO said he gave his statement and provided some documents to MACC today, over a session which lasted about four hours.
"This is regarding my report. It is voluntary. I asked for the meeting with MACC and came with documents," he told reporters after his meeting with MACC.
"They asked me about the Safitex case and some other cases," he said, but declined to share further details of what was discussed and declined to comment on whether there were elements of corruption and power abuse.
Zakaria said the documents that he shared today are those under his purview over the last one year and not related to the previous management.
Zakaria, who has been at the helm for just over a year, said the MACC treated him well and that he is likely to return to MACC for further questioning.
"I don't know (when MACC will clear me). Hopefully this saga will end in another one or two weeks," he said, adding that he already met the Prime Minister.
Commenting on the appointment of Datuk Seri Idris Jala as an independent party in the case, Zakaria said he welcomes the move as it would ensure fairness.
"I think it is a good move. At least there will be no favouritism or biasness and also not just internal auditor only, which I feel is not good. It is a good move because if my staff do it, they also may be conflicted (serba salah) to say anything about me.
"So it is a good move, a smart decision by the government to appoint a third party, it is very fair," he added.
Earlier upon his arrival at MACC, he told reporters he will cooperate with the authorities and provide them with everything that they wish to know.
"If needed, I will also provide information regarding the allegations linked to Safitex Trading LLC," he said.
Zakaria, who arrived alone at MACC's office here without any lawyers, was seen entering the building with documents containing a list of the possible items that could be discussed.
Among the items that reporters had managed to sight were matters on FGV Cambridge Nanosystems Ltd, F&B Nutrition Sdn Bhd, Project Foxtrot, Opposed to Direct Negotiation for Awarding of Contracts, Budget Cut for FGV's Chairman Roadshow Activity and decision to review long-term contracts.