Where in the world is Jho Low? Quite close, apparently

PETALING JAYA: Many authorities are looking for controversial businessman Low Taek Jho (pic), also known as Jho Low, including the Malaysian Government, but they may not have far to look.

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that Low was in Phuket, Thailand in May to anticipate the general election victory of his ally, former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

The report also alleged that up until the election, Low had remained in direct contact with Najib and also with people in Najib's inner circle.

However WSJ said Low left Thailand and has “struck a more careful posture” since Barisan Nasional was defeated in GE14.

It also stated that despite various investigations launched against 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) by various countries, Low continued to party and sail around Asia in a super-yacht.

“Low was so nonchalant he held a party in February with celebrity friends in the Chinese gambling enclave of Macau,” the report said.

WSJ also stated in its report that Low's lawyers said he declined to be interviewed or reveal where he was.

Previously, Nanyang Siang Pau reported that Low was hiding in Taiwan.

Malaysia does not have an extradition treaty with either China or Taiwan.

Newly-appointed Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad also said that the Malaysian Government “roughly knows” where to find Low.

Low is said to be the alleged mastermind behind the multibillion-dollar 1MDB scandal.