PUTRAJAYA: Political analyst James Chai will continue giving his statement today after more than eight hours of questioning by anti-graft officers yesterday.
He was spotted arriving at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) headquarters at about 10am yesterday in a white Proton Persona.
Dressed in a white shirt, Chai was seen leaving the premises with several individuals at about 6.30pm.
The former aide to former economy minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, Chai was sought by the MACC to assist in investigations linked to a government-backed RM1.11bil semiconductor project.
Chai, who is currently based in London, had been asked several times since early March to return to Malaysia.
Previously, the MACC received a letter from Chai’s lawyers dated March 9, informing that their client was unable to return home due to flight costs and work commitments.
The MACC then issued a reply dated March 13, granting an extension for Chai to appear on March 31 but he again failed to do so.
Following this, the MACC issued another notice, requiring Chai to appear within two weeks, offering to bear his flight costs to Malaysia.
The MACC also said it would consider seeking assistance through international channels, including Interpol or foreign enforcement agencies, to locate him and ensure his attendance.
To date, a total of 17 witnesses have had their statements recorded, involving officers from the Economy Ministry and related agencies including the Malaysian Investment Development Authority.
Law firm Kesavan Advocates & Solicitors, representing Chai, said in a statement that arrangements for their client’s return had been made after obtaining approval from his employer in London.
According to them, they had been in communication with the MACC to facilitate the investigation process.
