KUALA LUMPUR – Tempasuk assemblyman Datuk Mohd Arsad Bistari has clarified that his conversation, featured in a viral video linked to alleged corruption, was made in jest.
In a statement today, Arsad explained that the video was edited and circulated with malicious intent, although he was aware of the questionable motives when the individual visited him for the discussion.
“I want to clarify that my conversation in the edited and maliciously spread video was done in a joking manner and not in a serious context.
“I suspected that the person who met me had unclear motives, and based on that suspicion, I engaged in a sarcastic and informal conversation.
“Therefore, it is not appropriate to conclude that the conversation was a confession or an act in violation of the law,” he said, as quoted by media outlets.
The video clip, depicting Arsad discussing projects with the individual recording the footage, is the third to surface after similar content involving Kemabong assemblyman Datuk Rubin Balang and an audio clip purportedly featuring Sindumin assemblyman Datuk Dr Yusof Yacob.
The recording is said to have been provided by a whistleblower before being disseminated via news portals.
Earlier today, the MACC said that the individual purportedly responsible for releasing the viral video involving a state assemblyman had yet to lodge an official complaint.
Commission chief Tan Sri Azam Baki confirmed that two senior officials had been instructed to meet the lawyer representing the individual for confidential discussions.
“…we respect the role of lawyers representing their clients, but the matter has already gone public, with various stories circulating in the media. I will refrain from commenting further,” he told reporters at an event at the Malaysian Prison College Shooting Range, attended by over 70 media practitioners.
Arsad said that the conversation in the video was light-hearted and had been manipulated to cast him in a negative light.
“The allegations that I received commissions or kickbacks are baseless slander intended to tarnish my reputation in the eyes of the public.
“I also want to clarify that I respect the position and discretion of Sabah Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun and Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
“Claims that I accused them or stated that my projects were ‘obstructed’ are false and deliberately distorted, including allegations involving the assemblymen of Kawang, Pantai Dalit, Tanjung Batu, and Labuk.
“I was merely referring to the challenges of implementing major projects in Sabah, where approval processes involve many parties and high procedural standards,” he said.
Mohd Arsad expressed his readiness and commitment to fully cooperate with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and other relevant authorities if necessary.
He also noted that he has instructed his lawyer to explore all legal actions against individuals or parties continuing to spread false information or misrepresent his statements.
“A police report has also been lodged for further action. I urge the media and all parties to remain objective and fair in reporting this matter.
“Allow the legal process to take its course without passing judgment or drawing conclusions that could mislead the public,” he said.
On Tuesday, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor acknowledged that his name was mentioned in videos of assemblymen discussing bribes but asserted that he had nothing to hide.
Hajiji said he was aware of the recordings and affirmed the state government’s willingness to cooperate with any investigation, particularly with the MACC.
The chief minister also called for attention to be directed at the alleged bribe giver, stating that the person had malicious intent in seeking benefits from the government.
It was previously reported that the lawyer visited the MACC Headquarters in Putrajaya on October 30 to provide information regarding the alleged corruption case. During the visit, the lawyer requested protection and immunity under the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 to ensure their client would not face investigation or legal action. – November 16, 2024