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The Malaysian defense ministry has placed army chief Hafizuddeain Jantan on leave pending an investigation into allegations involving large cash inflows into his bank accounts. Minister Khaled Nordin stated that the leave is to ensure a smooth investigation process.

The allegations suggest funds transferred from companies with military contracts may be linked to the officer and his family. The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is investigating military procurement contracts, having recorded statements from three individuals.

Preliminary checks indicated that certain companies frequently secured high-value contracts, raising suspicions. Navy chief Zulhelmy Ithnain will take over as acting head of the armed forces following the upcoming retirement of chief Nizam Jaffar, who turns 60 in August 2026. Khaled denied any connection between the retirements and the MACC probe related to recent drug-smuggling arrests.