Former Malaysian Army Chief And Wives Detained In Major Military Graft Probe

PUTRAJAYA – In a significant crackdown on high-level corruption, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) detained the former Chief of the Malaysian Army, General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, and four others on Wednesday night, January 7, 2026.

The investigation centers on a suspected cartel involved in fixing tenders for military procurement contracts. The former army chief, his two wives, and a separate married couple were arrested following a series of raids and statement recordings at the MACC headquarters in Putrajaya.

Key Details of the Investigation

The MACC’s probe into the defense ministry has rapidly expanded since late 2025, revealing alleged “large cash inflows” into the personal accounts of senior military personnel.

• Cash Seizure: MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki confirmed that officials intercepted RM2.4 million ($591,716) in cash. The funds were caught while being transferred between residences by a civilian linked to the case.
• The Cartel: On Tuesday, the commission secured remand orders for 17 company directors suspected of paying bribes to senior officers to secure lucrative supply and maintenance projects.
• Scope of Probe: Investigators are currently scrutinizing at least 26 companies and over 40 firms that have consistently won high-value military contracts since 2023.

Leadership Transition

The scandal has already forced a leadership change within the Malaysian Armed Forces:

1. Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan was placed on leave in late December 2025 after his promotion to Armed Forces Chief was postponed due to the allegations.
2. Lieutenant General Datuk Azhan Md Othman was officially appointed as the 31st Chief of the Malaysian Army, effective January 1, 2026, to ensure stability during the ongoing probe.

Timeline of the “Army Procurement Case”