Probe group soliciting funds

KOTA KINABALU, Apr 19, 2012: Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) on Wednesday queried the existence of an association believed to be representing Customs officials and actively soliciting donations from several restaurant operators here and Penampang.

SAPP Information Chief Chong Pit Fah said he received numerous complaints from business proprietors on the matter.

"The association is now actively soliciting donations from numerous parties supposedly for launching their new publication.

"The main question is whether this association exists and registered with the Registrar of Societies. If registered, is the Customs Department aware of their activities?

"The way they solicit for donation is similar to forcing... I am concerned that it is a scam by irresponsible people with intentions of profiteering from the current economic situation.

"Business proprietors who donate at least RM300 would be given a certificate as token of appreciation with the company name printed on the certificate which is signed by the Honorary Secretary of the association," he said.

He said the certificate given by them seems like a simple printout from a photocopy shop, adding that the association's registered address and serial number was not printed on it.

The association's existence, whether valid or not is still in question and the soliciting for donation activities could tarnish the department, he said.