HISHAMMUDDIN Hussein’s offer to look for fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho should be reviewed to avoid the perception that it was made to clear his name of matters related to the previous administration.

Deputy Primary Industries Minister Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin said the current government has a related ministry and a minister tasked to look into the matter surrounding Low and 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).  

“Therefore, I do not see the need for the offer, because if we look at the relations between both countries, the defence relations between us and China are aligned with the desires of both leaders,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby today.

Yesterday, Hishammuddin had offered to use the Beijing connections he made during his tenure as the defence minister to look for Jho Low.

He said the efforts would be made in his own personal capacity and not as a member of the Malaysian government, as he had always wanted to know the truth about the sovereign wealth fund.

The Hang Tuah Jaya MP said he was shocked by Hushammuddin’s suggestion as it should have been proposed much earlier.

He also said it should be reviewed as many Umno leaders are being brought to court and charged with bribery as well as misappropriation.

“However, I believe the government will review the matter through the relevant ministry, and the rationale behind the offer.

“If it is specifically to help the country in tracking Jho Low, I do not see it as a problem and we would allow it.

“Of course, there should be coordination with the related ministry,” he added.

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

He 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 23, 2018.