Officers of Zakat Pulau Pinang (ZPP) who were detained by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will be placed in "pool" until investigations into alleged embezzlement of zakat (tithe) money are completed.

State executive councillor in charge of Islamic affairs Abdul Malik Kassim explained that the five will be relegated to other jobs within the department, which does not involve handling zakat collection.

Malik however, in a press conference today, assured that the arrest of the officers earlier this month, had anything to do with zakat money.

"The case does not involve zakat (collection), instead it is related to a personal offence.

"The ZPP Board will meet on Monday to decide whether these officers, who are on leave (after being released on bail), should be put on leave or remain in their posts. We also cannot decide whether to suspend them until we follow the due process," he said at the press meet at the Penang legislative assembly meeting room.

Malik said the incident had raised concerns among the public towards ZPP, which is wholly owned by the Penang Islamic Affairs Council (MAIPP). 

He added that the Finance Committee of MAIPP will monitor ZPP’s operations.

Yesterday, Malik held a dialogue with ZPP staff to “restore their faith”, which was dented when their colleagues were nabbed by MACC.

“With the steps taken to address the issue, ZPP operations, activities and management will continue smoothly to help those in need.

“The ZPP board of directors have also held meetings to ensure that the zakat administration runs smoothly, especially during Ramadan, when it is the busiest time for zakat collection”.