Did Tengku Zafrul have discretion over project applications?

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Tengku Zafrul Had Discretion Over Project Applications, But Would Consider Prime Minister's Recommendations

Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz confirmed that as finance minister, he possessed the authority to decide whether to act upon company applications for government projects. However, he also stated that he would ensure such applications were considered if they were forwarded by the prime minister. This testimony came during his appearance as the prosecution's eleventh witness in the corruption trial of former prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.
Authority to Act on Applications

Tengku Zafrul, who served as finance minister from March 2020 to August 2021, testified that applications reaching the Finance Ministry or his attention could be acted upon at his discretion. He agreed that handwritten minutes from Muhyiddin on forwarded documents were intended "to bring to my attention for consideration." While acknowledging that these minutes were not final decisions, Tengku Zafrul affirmed his commitment to "act to ensure it is put to consideration," particularly when the recommendation originated from the prime minister.
Nature of Prime Ministerial Minutes

The former finance minister confirmed receiving numerous minutes from Muhyiddin, describing them as "nothing unusual" in the context of government dealings. He elaborated that the nature of the minutes dictated the course of action, noting instances where Muhyiddin might explicitly state, "I do not agree," indicating a directive not to proceed. For projects under the Jana Wibawa program specifically, Tengku Zafrul understood Muhyiddin's communications as notification and a request to review the applications.
Consideration Versus Preferential Treatment

Regarding a list of 54 contractors proposed by Muhyiddin for Jana Wibawa projects, Tengku Zafrul agreed with the suggestion that it did not imply preferential treatment or that any specific companies should be favoured. He clarified that the list signified that the companies "should be considered." Tengku Zafrul also confirmed that Muhyiddin, either as prime minister or through the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), did not interfere with the awarding of projects or the evaluation of company qualifications. He further stated he did not know who compiled the list, but acknowledged that officers typically prepare such information.
Specific Project Approvals and Cancellations

Tengku Zafrul confirmed that Muhyiddin never instructed him to cancel government procurement processes for KCJ Engineering Sdn Bhd, Sutracom Sdn Bhd, or Nepturis Sdn Bhd. KCJ Engineering was awarded a project valued at RM62 million. Sutracom and Nepturis separately received approval for projects worth RM605.2 million and RM141 million, respectively. He also noted that Malaysia possesses a greater number of Bumiputera contractors than the 54 companies listed in Muhyiddin's proposal.

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Did Tengku Zafrul have discretion over project applications?

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