Electrical Contractor Loses RM152,550 After Falling Victim to Fake Government Tender Syndicate in Terengganu

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 2026 — An electrical contractor suffered losses amounting to RM152,550 after being deceived by a syndicate offering a non-existent government tender.

Kuala Terengganu District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Azli Mohd Noor said the 68-year-old victim received an email on July 14 offering him a project to install solar-powered lighting in Kampung Tanjung Baharu, Hulu Terengganu.

After expressing interest in the project, the contractor contacted a man through WhatsApp to obtain further information.

The suspect allegedly impersonated an officer from the Ministry of Housing and Local Government and introduced himself as “Nik Sharil.”

According to police, the suspect requested the victim’s company information, claiming that it was required for verification and registration before the project could be approved.

The contractor was subsequently informed that his company had successfully secured a tender to supply three generator units for use by the ministry in Putrajaya.

The three generator units were reportedly priced at RM50,850. The victim was instructed to make the payment immediately on July 22.

On the following day, the suspect contacted the contractor again and directed him to make an additional payment of RM101,700 for the purchase of another six generator units.

To convince the victim that the tender was legitimate, the suspect allegedly promised that he would receive RM252,000 in project profits within six days.

The contractor eventually realised that he had been deceived after seeking advice from an auditor with whom he regularly conducted business.

His attempts to contact the suspect for further clarification were unsuccessful.

The victim subsequently lodged a police report at approximately 2 p.m. on July 26. The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.

The incident highlights the risks faced by contractors and business owners who receive unsolicited tender offers through email, WhatsApp and other digital communication platforms.

Fraud syndicates commonly impersonate government officers or representatives of established organisations to gain the confidence of their targets.

Victims may be asked to provide company details, make urgent payments or purchase specific products before being promised substantial profits or contract payments.

Businesses are advised to verify all government procurement opportunities through official ministry channels and recognised procurement platforms before sharing confidential company information or transferring funds.

Contractors should also contact the relevant government agency directly using telephone numbers or email addresses published on official websites.

Suspicious warning signs may include demands for immediate payment, instructions to purchase products from designated suppliers and promises of unusually high returns within a short period.

Individuals who suspect they have transferred money to scammers should immediately contact their bank and report the matter to the authorities.