Did Tengku Zafrul confirm he could decide whether to take action?

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Tengku Zafrul Confirmed Authority Over Project Applications

Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz confirmed that as finance minister, he possessed the authority to decide whether or not to act upon companies' applications for government projects. However, he stated that he would ensure applications were considered if they were forwarded by the prime minister. Tengku Zafrul provided this testimony as the prosecution's 11th witness in the power abuse and money laundering trial of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, during which he served as finance minister from March 2020 to August 2021.
Discretionary Power as Finance Minister

Tengku Zafrul affirmed that the decision to take action on company applications rested with him, provided these applications reached the Finance Ministry or were brought to his attention. He agreed that the origin of these applications was immaterial as long as they were presented to him. His specific commitment was, "Yes, but if it’s from the prime minister, I will act on it."
Consideration of Prime Ministerial Directives

When faced with the suggestion that directives from the prime minister were not final, Tengku Zafrul clarified his stance, stating, "I will act to ensure it is put to consideration." He acknowledged receiving numerous directives from Muhyiddin during his tenure and agreed that these minutes were not unusual, serving to highlight matters for attention.
Specifics of Jana Wibawa Projects

Regarding the Jana Wibawa projects, Tengku Zafrul concurred that Muhyiddin's communications were essentially notifications and requests for him to review the companies' applications. He further agreed that there was no direct interference or meddling from Muhyiddin in his capacity as Prime Minister or from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) concerning the awarding or qualification evaluation of these projects.
Interpretation of "Consideration"

When questioned whether a list of 54 companies brought to his attention implied approval and project award by the Finance Ministry, Tengku Zafrul clarified that it meant the companies were to be considered. He could not confirm if all 54 companies were ultimately awarded projects.

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Did Tengku Zafrul confirm he could decide whether to take action?

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