Given two weeks to return for probe
PETALING JAYA: Chai Jin Shern, also known as James Chai (pic), has been given two weeks by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to return to Malaysia to assist in the Arm Holdings probe.
To ensure he does so, the agency is even offering to cover his travel costs.
If he does not take up the offer, the MACC may then seek assistance from international enforcement agencies, including Interpol, to locate and ensure his return.
The commission said investigations into the case are 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,” it said in a statement.
Statements from eight more witnesses are expected to be recorded, including those currently abroad.
The MACC added that it has obtained key documents, including agreements and other materials relevant to the probe.
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.
The commission later received a letter dated March 9 from his legal representatives saying he was unable to attend to have his statement recorded, citing flight costs and work commitments.
He was then granted an extension to appear on March 31, but he did not confirm his attendance.
Following this, the MACC issued another letter requiring him to be present within two weeks.
The commission stressed that those called to assist in investigations are obligated to do so.
“If James Chai maintains that he has not committed any wrongdoing, he has to present himself to the MACC to give his statement, rather than issue explanations in the public domain,” 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.
