Saravanan unfazed by talk that MACC will call him in

PETALING JAYA: Former human resources minister Datuk Seri M. Saravanan (pic) remains unperturbed by talk that he will be called up by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to help in its investigations into three businessmen, one of whom is known for bringing Indian entertainment acts into the country.

The Tapah MP was more amused by the chatter around town after pictures of him and one of the businessmen were shared on social media.

“Biasalah (It’s normal) during election season, you get all sorts of rumours, unless there is an official announcement from the authorities.

“To be honest, nobody really knows what is the case about. I mean we do not know if there is any case,” he told The Star when contacted last night.

Saravanan’s response followed reports by media outlets that the MACC would be calling a former Cabinet minister to facilitate them in their investigations into the businessmen’s dealings.

He also said the MACC was well aware of its job scope, and would not have time to “waste by questioning him”.

Asked about those widely shared pictures of him, the deputy MIC president said it was not a crime for him to take pictures with any businessmen.

“It’s quite a common occurrence when I am out,” he added.

Saravanan insisted that the news currently being spread about him was merely to tarnish his image.

Earlier yesterday, it was reported that the MACC had arrested a “Datuk” concert organiser, who is linked to questionable funds amounting to RM500mil.

Local Malay daily Sinar Harian, quoting a source, said two other suspects were also nabbed.

The report added that the suspects were being investigated under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.

It is believed that the second suspect is a film distributor.

The third person also detained in the MACC operation is a businessman-cum-politician from Negri Sembilan, according to the source.

It is believed that more than 30 individuals, including family members and friends of the suspects, have been called in for questioning.