Radzi Jidin denies connection with RM80mil book printing project under MACC probe

PETALING JAYA: Datuk Dr Radzi Jidin has denied any involvement in the J-Qaf book printing project that has prompted a Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) investigation.

The former senior minister refuted the allegations of approving direct negotiations for the RM80mil project.

"In the allegations (on social media) it was said that my wife acted as a proxy via a company called ATR One & Only Enterprise and that she was a member of the royal family with a Tengku title.

"I would like to stress that such allegations, thrown in those messages that linked me and my wife in the printing of the J-Qaf preschool books, are absolutely false," he said on Facebook on Saturday (Sept 23).

He stressed that his wife was not part of any royal family, nor did he and his wife have any relations to the aforementioned company.

"This matter is very clear to anyone that has made their own searches on the company," he said.

He added that he had no part in the book printing.

"I would like to stress that I have never asked or received, either directly or through others, any form or bribe or kickbacks from any parties ever," he said.

He also confirmed the arrest of his former political secretary by the MACC.

"It is clear that the MACC is acting on orders from those above them because of my statements in Parliament on Sept 19.

"It is also clear that the purpose of the WhatsApp messages that have been forwarded is merely to destroy my image and reputation, and to oppress my former officer who is innocent," he said, adding that legal action would be considered on those that have "re-forward and reprint" the allegations.

Earlier on Saturday, MACC sources said that a former political secretary and a company owner have been arrested as part of their probe into a RM80mil book printing project that allegedly saw kickbacks given out.