FORMER deputy premier Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was among those who were called up by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to explain delays in the delivery of six littoral combat ships (LCS) worth RM9bil, says PAC chairman Wong Kah Woh.

       He added that Ahmad Zahid was asked to explain the delay in the completion of the second generation LCS in his capacity as Defence Minister between April 10 and May 16, 2013.

       “His explanation on the issue lasted almost two hours.

       “He was the sixth witness to be called by the PAC over the issue on the LCS, which was the largest defence procurement in the Defence Ministry’s history.

       “Until today, not even one LCS has been received by the Royal Malaysian Navy,” Wong said in a statement yesterday.

       The others who were also called up by the PAC include ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Muez Abdul Aziz, Tan Sri Ambrin Buang who headed the government’s procurement committee and former navy chief Admiral (Rtd) Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Jaafar.

       Also called up were Boustead Naval Shipyard (BNS) chief operating officer Low Kok Chiang and the LCS project team members.

       “The failure to complete the LCS is very serious as it not only involved weaknesses and failure in management, procurement and finance aspects but also has an impact on the safety and defence of the country,” Wong said, adding that the PAC’s probe into the issue is still ongoing.