What legal challenge is Daim Zainuddin launching against MACC asset seizures?

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Daim Zainuddin and family initiate legal challenge against MACC asset seizures

Tun Daim Zainuddin and his family have initiated legal proceedings to challenge the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's (MACC) seizure of their assets and the freezing of bank accounts. The legal bid, filed on June 6, is a leave application for judicial review at the Kuala Lumpur High Court. The family is seeking court declarations to nullify the asset seizures and unfreeze the bank accounts of 18 named entities.
Lawsuit names government, PM, and MACC chief as respondents

The lawsuit filed by Daim and his family names the Malaysian government, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, MACC chief Tan Sri Azam Baki, and two other MACC officers as respondents. This action represents a direct challenge to the authority and actions of the anti-corruption body and its leadership.
Declarations sought include illegality and abuse of power

Among the key declarations sought by Daim and his family are that the asset seizures executed by the MACC are illegal, constitute an abuse of power, are irrational, and were undertaken in bad faith. They are also seeking general and exemplary damages as part of their legal recourse.
Affidavit claims asset freeze order lapsed due to lack of charges

A supporting affidavit claims that the asset seizure order, issued under Section 44(5) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (AMLATFPUA Act), lapses after 90 days if no money laundering charges are preferred. The affidavit asserts that this 90-day period expired on September 5, 2023, without any such charges being filed against the applicants.
Allegations of personal agenda and unlawful influence

The affidavit further alleges that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim possesses the authority or influence to instruct the MACC to act for the purpose of furthering a personal agenda against the applicants. This claim suggests a potential political motivation behind the MACC's actions. Daim and his wife have also previously faced charges under Section 36(2) of the MACC Act for alleged failure to declare a significant number of assets.

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What legal challenge is Daim Zainuddin launching against MACC asset seizures?

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