Nazri defends PM, says RM2.6bil donation from 'brotherly' nation

KUALA LUMPUR: It is not fair to judge the Prime Minister for taking political donations, said Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz. 

The Tourism and Culture Minister said that all political parties receive donations and it would be double standard to demonise the Prime Minister for it.

He said the RM2.6bil donation deposited into Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's personal account, was from a "brotherly nation", adding that this would not make it susceptible to meddling from the Middle East.

"I would like to remind all political parties ... don't lie la saying that they don't receive donations.

"For example, just to contest for a parliamentary seat, it costs RM5,000. Imagine 100 seats," Nazri said, questioning where political parties get the money to contest if not from contributors.

He said it was more "transparent" to channel the RM2.6bil into Najib's personal account.

"Compared to taking donations in cash or putting it in a Swiss Bank, this is more transparent.

"Just click on the computer and all the transactions will appear," he told reporters after the 2015 Declaration of National Heritage event at the National Museum, Tuesday.

Nazri also supported for a law governing political donations.

"Like in the US, when they receive donations, it will be registered. Everyone knows, so there are no issues," he said, adding that Malaysia should have a similar system.