KUALA LUMPUR – Former human resources minister Datuk Seri M. Saravanan has insisted that it is “not a crime” to be photographed with businessmen.
This comes amidst photos circulating on social media capturing the MIC deputy president with a businessman arrested by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) yesterday on suspicion of money laundering.
“(Taking photos with businessmen) is quite a common occurrence when I am out,” Saravanan told The Star.
Saravanan, who is Tapah MP, was also reported as saying that it is normal for rumours to run wild during election season, asserting that accusations thrown his way are a means to tarnish his image.
“To be honest, nobody really knows what is the case about. I mean, we do not know if there is any case,” he said, adding that the MACC is well aware of its job scope and would be “wasting time” by questioning him.
Yesterday, Scoop reported that three businessmen and 20 money changers were arrested by the MACC under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.
A source said a former minister will be summoned by the anti-graft body for questioning, with investigations focusing on the possible involvement of figures from government agencies under the Human Resources Ministry. – July 26, 2023