The Malaysian Insight

HISHAMMUDDIN Hussein has offered to tap Beijing connections made during his years as defence minister to help find fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho.

Hishammuddin said the efforts would be made in his personal capacity, and not as a member of the Malaysian government.

Malaysian police in August filed criminal charges against Low, who is wanted in connection with the multi-billion-dollar money-laundering scandal at state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).

Low has evaded authorities and is believed to be hiding in China.  

“I have to continue… I am not bound by any official request from anybody. This is personal,” Hishammuddin said.

“From back then, I have wanted to know the truth and the final resolution in the 1MDB case. It’s not a simple thing, he is truly complex,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby today.

Hishammuddin said it was undeniable that Low was involved in the 1MDB scandal and that the businessman should return to clear his name if indeed he was innocent.

“If he wants to clear his name, he has to return and face whatever charges there are in court.

“If I can help (find him), even to a wormhole, I will look for him.”

The Semberong MP said he had forged close connections with several Chinese leaders during his time as a cabinet member, and stressed that his offer was purely for the sake of seeking truth and justice.

“We can only promise to do the best we can based on the experience we have, the networking, friends who can help us seek the truth and justice for the country and the people.

“This is the importance of what I am doing now.”

Low has said he will not surrender himself for questioning to Malaysian authorities, claiming that he would not be judged fairly as he was a victim of “trial by media”. – October 22, 2018.