KOTA KINABALU: A former director of a state department has been arrested over RM1.2mil in bribes he allegedly took from two companies.

       The suspect, in his 50s, was arrested at the state Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) headquarters at 10am on Wednesday (March 9).

       Sources said the suspect was said to have demanded and received the sum from two companies to secure contracts for various services needed by the department.

       The alleged payments were made for various projects between 2017 and 2018.

       It was learned that the projects involved Sabah Port and Harbour Department.

       When contacted, Sabah MACC director Datuk S. Karunanithy confirmed the arrest.

       He said the case would be investigated under Section 17(a) of the MACC Act.

       Karunanithy did not rule out the possibility that the suspect would be charged soon.