[UPDATED] Kedah FA CEO released from MACC detention on bail

Association denies chief was involved in corruption, says he showed effort in addressing salary arrears, debt claims

The Kedah Football Association has confirmed that its chief executive officer, Zulkifli Che Haron (pic), was released on bail around 10am today after being detained by MACC on Thursday concerning a RM6 million graft case related to the association. – Facebook pic, January 7, 2024

KUALA LUMPUR – Kedah FA (KFA) has confirmed that its chief executive officer, Zulkifli Che Haron, was released on bail around 10am today. 

This development comes amid investigations by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) following his statement, which he provided alongside three other individuals.

In their statement issued today, KFA disclosed that Zulkifli was summoned on Thursday to contribute to the ongoing investigation, with MACC notifying lawyers about the arrest at about 9.25pm. 

The confirmation by KFA yesterday revealed that Zulkifli was detained by the MACC concerning a RM6 million graft case.  

“KFA would like to clarify the appointment of the CEO was to manage administration and secretariat functions under the honorary secretary per the association’s statute and the association is not involved in any state government projects. 

“According to the association statute, all decisions of the association are made by the executive committee. 

“The CEO’s responsibility is to ensure the smooth administration of the association,” read the statement signed by media and public relations committee chairman Ibrahim Ismail. 

Ibrahim also highlighted the CEO’s efforts since his appointment in August 2020 in addressing issues like salary arrears and debt claims after the association’s leadership changed. 

He added that the association’s primary income stems from contributions of companies and corporate bodies, assuring diligent recording in financial reports. 

“Contributions are accepted without any form of reward or prejudice,” he said. 

KFA urged the public to refrain from speculation and baseless accusations, noting that the investigation is in its early stages.  

The association vehemently denied any involvement in corruption, reiterating the principle of the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. – January 7, 2023