KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (MITRA), which was linked to allegations of mismanagement of funds a few years ago, received an official rating of "low risk" from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) for 2023.
The unit received notification of its reassessed risk status for 2023 in a letter signed by the Agency's Integrity Management Division (BPIA) director, Datuk Nor Azmi Karim, on Nov 22.
Mitra's Special Task Force Committee chairman, Datuk R. Ramanan, confirmed receiving the letter when contacted by Bernama two days ago.
"I am grateful to the MACC for their cooperation and unwavering support to Mitra throughout this period. Undoubtedly, this year's reassessment status will positively impact the agency.
"Since assuming the role of chairman of this special task force, the primary mission for me and my team has been to restore Mitra's image. There have been numerous allegations of fund misuse over the past few years," he said.
Ramanan, who is also the member of parliament for Sungai Buloh, acknowledged that Mitra's standing within the Indian community had suffered due to several court cases.
"As such, I am steadfast in fortifying Mitra's delivery system, particularly in matters of integrity and transparency. This reassessment status marks a promising start for Mitra.
"I am also planning several improvement initiatives for the coming year and am confident they will benefit the Indian community.
"Our goal is to empower the Indian community, particularly the B40 group. I will make announcements as the time approaches," he added, noting that he had informed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim of this positive development.
Meanwhile, Mitra CEO Ravindran Nair described the notification as 'long-awaited.'
"This reassessment decision is undoubtedly a positive sign for us after facing numerous baseless accusations. Mitra consistently prioritises a clean, efficient and trustworthy delivery system.
"We express our gratitude to the leadership of Datuk R. Ramanan and his team, who have brought about significant changes to strengthen the management system at Mitra," he said. — Bernama