PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission has offered to cover travel expenses for Chai Jin Shern, also known as James Chai, to return to Malaysia to assist with investigations into the ongoing Arm Holdings case.
The MACC said Chai has been given two weeks to present himself for questioning, failing which the commission may seek assistance from international enforcement agencies, including Interpol, to locate and ensure his attendance.
In a statement on Wednesday (April 1), the MACC said investigations into the case are actively ongoing, with statements recorded from 17 witnesses so far.
“These include officers from the Economy Ministry as well as agencies such as the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA),” it said.
The MACC added that it has also obtained key documents, including agreements and other supporting materials relevant to the probe.
It said statements from eight more witnesses are expected to be recorded, including individuals currently overseas.
Chai, a former aide to Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli has been identified as an individual required to assist in the investigation.
On March 4, the MACC issued a notice to locate him.
Subsequently, the commission received a letter dated March 9 from his legal representatives stating that he was unable to attend to have his statement recorded, citing flight costs and work commitments.
A follow-up letter dated March 13 granted him an extension to appear on March 31. However, he failed to confirm his attendance.
Following this, the MACC issued another letter requiring him to be present within two weeks.
The commission stressed that individuals called to assist in investigations are obligated to cooperate with authorities.
“If James Chai maintains that he has not committed any wrongdoing, the appropriate course of action is to present himself to the MACC to give his statement, rather than issuing explanations in the public domain without appearing before the authorities,” it said.
The MACC reiterated that no one is above the law and that investigations will be conducted in a professional, independent and evidence-based manner.
