02 March 2016
- RSIS
- Media Mentions
- WSJ has Agenda, says Najib over New Reports on Funds
In a statement issued yesterday evening, the Malaysian Prime Minister’s Office accused the WSJ of becoming a “willing vehicle for certain political actors” who for personal gains wanted to damage Mr Najib’s reputation. “But this politically motivated anti-Najib campaign, which sought to use Western media, has failed,” it said, adding that Mr Najib is committed to steering the country.
Citing two unnamed people who are familiar with the money flows into Mr Najib’s accounts and a person familiar with one overseas investigation, the WSJ report yesterday said more than US$1 billion was deposited from 2011 to 2013, far more than the US$681 million identified earlier.
The WSJ also said global investigators believe much of the US$1 billion originated from state investment firm 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) and moved through a complex web of transactions.
… Dr Mohamed Nawab Mohamed Osman, coordinator of the Malaysia Programme at the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), said Dr Mahathir will need to reassess his position about working with the opposition if he is serious about dislodging the Prime Minister.
“UMNO is a feudal party and will remain loyal to the president of the party. Given the fact that Mr Najib has already consolidated his position, it will be impossible for Dr Mahathir to remove him.”
IDSS / Online / Print
Last updated on 03/03/2016