GEORGE TOWN, Nov 7 — The Penang Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) arrested a former deputy director of a government department for allegedly accepting a RM35,000 bribe from a contractor in return for awarding a departmental tender project.

A source said the male suspect, in his 50s, was detained at about 10am today after presenting himself at the graftbuster’s office here to give his statement.

“Preliminary investigations found that the suspect allegedly committed the offence in 2022 and is believed to have received the kickback through bank transfers to his personal account as well as in cash,” the source said.

Meanwhile, Penang MACC director Datuk S. Karunanithy, who confirmed the arrest, said the case is being investigated under Section 16(a)(B) of the MACC Act 2009.

“The suspect was detained for 24 hours before being released on MACC bail,” he said when contacted. — Bernama