Zahid tells Swiss A-G to use official channels

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic) hoped that the Swiss authorities would relay information or allegations in its probe into 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) via official government channels.

The deputy prime minister said any statement made outside of official channels could affect ties between both countries and lead to bias reporting.

"We will leave it to the Attorney-General to get details on the allegations from his Swiss counterpart," Ahmad Zahid said after closing the MITA Tourism Fair at the KL Convention Centre.

Switzerland's attorney-general, Michael Lauber, released a statement on Friday saying he had formally asked Malaysia for help into possible violations of Swiss law by 1MDB, saying suspected misappropriations amounted to about US$4bil (RM16.57bil).

Lauber said the request pertained to possible violations of Swiss laws related to bribery of foreign officials, misconduct in public office, money laundering and criminal mismanagement at 1MDB.

Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohamed Apandi Ali has said he would take steps to collaborate with Lauber in the 1MDB investigations.

He said after reviewing the materials, and those of other relevant authorities and internal investigations, it would determine the appropriate course of action.

He added that the Malaysian authorities were committed to working with the relevant foreign  law enforcement entities through the applicable international conventions and agreements.