A Deputy Permanent Secretary has been sentenced to six and a half years' imprisonment for multiple offences of misconduct in public office. Awang Wardi bin Haji Mohd Ali, who served at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, was found guilty of abusing his position to obtain benefits from hotels under the Ministry's oversight and accepting fund transfers from a vendor participating in an event in collaboration with the Ministry.
This case represents the first conviction in Brunei Darussalam to be concluded after a full trial under Section 12B of the Prevention of Corruption Act, Chapter 131. An investigation by the Anti-Corruption Bureau uncovered evidence of the Defendant's misconduct.
Between June 2020 and February 2021, the Defendant stayed at two local hotels on multiple occasions without making immediate payment, bypassing standard booking procedures and securing preferential treatment. His unpaid invoices accumulated to approximately $5,000, which he only settled after investigations commenced. While in debt to the hotels, he took official actions that benefited them, including facilitating expedited inspections and approvals. He also unlawfully disclosed confidential government information to a hotel owner with business interests connected to MPRT, creating a significant conflict of interest.
In three other separate offences, the defendant received a total of $9,500 in bank transfers from a vendor involved in MPRT's annual festival, which he oversaw as Chair of the Secretariat. These payments were not disclosed and were partly used for personal expenses. The court found this to be a deliberate violation of transparency expected of his office and a serious breach of public trust.
In sentencing, the Honourable Senior Magistrate Hjh Azrimah Haji Abdul Rahman noted that the seriousness of the misconduct was heightened by the defendant's senior rank and the repeated nature of his offences. The offence under Section 12B of the Prevention of Corruption Act was introduced through the 2015 amendment. This provision broadens the scope of anti-corruption law by recognising misconduct in public office beyond just gratification, ensuring accountability and integrity in public service. The ruling sends a clear message that all public officers, regardless of rank, will be held accountable to maintain integrity and good governance.
Deputy Public Prosecutors Dk Didi-Nuraza Pg Abdul Latiff, Hjh Siti Mu'izzah Hj Sabli and Jordan Tiah Teck Chiun conducted the trial on behalf of the Public Prosecutor. The Defendant was represented by Yusof Halim & Partners, Advocates & Solicitors.
