The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will cooperate with the Johor government to study loopholes found in the financial management procedures and system of the Johor State Islamic Religious Department.

MACC deputy commissioner (Operation) Datuk Azam Baki said it was very important to chart a standard operating procedure, especially JAINJ in financial management so that leakages could be avoided in future.

"I believe it can impede any opportunity for the occurrence of non-compliance in financial management.

"In addition, Johor MACC consultation and inspection division will discuss with the Johor State Secretary's Office to review weaknesses in the procedures and system pertaining to the systems and procedures of JAINJ's financial management procedures," he said.

He told Bernama this when asked to comment on the arrest of four religious officers by Johor MACC recently for alleged involvement in corruption and abuse of power.

"After MACC has investigated the existing weaknesses, it will recommend the proposals and advice in order to take the necessary steps to overcome them.

"I hope this cooperation will open up the opportunity for other agencies to also cooperate with MACC to curb abuse of power and irregularies so as to further strengthen the work procedures in their agency or organisation," he said.

On Monday, Johor MACC arrested two officers from JAINJ suspected to be involved in corruption and abuse of power by approving permits to organise Islamic pre marriage course without going through proper procedures. - BERNAMA