Human Resources Minister Steven Sim has never appointed an advisor, his Press Secretary, Abdul Hakim Ab Rahman, confirmed.
In a statement on Monday (March 31), Abdul Hakim said the ministry was aware of claims that an individual had been acting as the minister’s advisor.
“Any inquiries regarding positions within the Minister’s Office or the Human Resources Ministry should be directed to the ministry’s official channels,” he stated.
His clarification follows a news report alleging that a businessman, bearing the title Tan Sri accused of defrauding the public of RM10 million, was linked to the minister in an advisory role.
On March 29, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) arrested a businessman with three decades of experience in the oil and gas sector for allegedly misappropriating funds. He had reportedly demanded RM25 million, claiming he could use his police connections to resolve money laundering cases.
“He further asserted that the money collected would be handed over to the police to prevent the victims from facing any legal action or investigations under the anti-money laundering law,” a source told Bernama.
The 59-year-old suspect, chairman of a public-listed company, was taken into custody by Bukit Aman’s anti-money laundering team upon returning home to Jalan U-Thant from Osaka, Japan, on March 29.
He is also an active community leader, holding memberships in various foundations and non-governmental organisations.
News of his arrest has shocked the business community.
Meanwhile, Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain confirmed that a press conference will be held soon to address the matter.