Former Army Chief Denies Two Fresh Money Laundering Charges

The former army chief arrives at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court, where he pleaded not guilty to two new money laundering charges linked to alleged illicit financial activities.

KUALA LUMPUR : A former Malaysian army chief today denied two additional charges of money laundering, intensifying legal proceedings against him in a high-profile case involving alleged financial misconduct and abuse of authority. The accused, who is already facing multiple corruption-related charges, entered not guilty pleas after the latest charges were read out before the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court. The new counts relate to alleged transactions involving large sums of money believed to have been obtained through unlawful activities and later processed to disguise their origin.

According to the prosecution, the former senior officer is accused of conducting financial dealings designed to conceal and transfer illicit funds, including moving money through various bank accounts and intermediaries over a prolonged period. The charges were brought under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act, which carries severe penalties, including lengthy imprisonment and substantial fines if convicted.

Investigators said the case is part of a broader probe into irregular financial practices linked to military procurement and fund management, with authorities analysing banking records, financial trails, and asset ownership. As part of the investigation, enforcement agencies have seized cash, luxury vehicles, high-end watches, jewellery, and properties believed to be connected to the alleged offences.

The defence requested reasonable bail terms and adequate time to prepare for trial, citing the complexity of the case and the volume of documentary evidence. The court granted bail with strict conditions, including the surrender of travel documents and regular reporting to authorities. The court fixed mention and case management dates in the coming weeks to facilitate the exchange of documents and determine trial schedules.

The case has drawn strong public attention due to the accused’s former position as a key national security figure. Observers say the prosecution reflects growing efforts to strengthen accountability and integrity within public institutions, including the armed forces.