4 object to forfeiture suits, say MACC must prove money laundering claims

(FMT) – Four individuals and entities named by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) as recipients of 1MDB funds have objected to the forfeiture suits against them.

Sarawakian businessman Bustari Yusof (pic), Jakel Trading Sdn Bhd, Media Edge CIA (M) Sdn Bhd and Yayasan PBAKM said the authorities had used the wrong method in filing the suits.

Bustari’s counsel Kamarul Hisham Kamaruddin told the High Court today that the prosecution should prove that the funds were within the definition of money laundering under Section 61 of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act, before third parties are called to contest the suits.

“The court has to determine first if the subject matter satisfies what is defined under money laundering laws which is the proceeds from illegal activities,” he said.

Earlier, deputy public prosecutor Nik Haslini Hashim said the prosecution was seeking a court order to gazette a notice to call interested parties to contest the lawsuits.

Lawyers Habizan Rahman for Jakel, Guok Ngek Seong for Media Edge CIA and Adzly Ab Manas for Yayasan PBAKM said they also took the same position as Bustari.

High Court judge Collin Lawrence Sequerah fixed Sept 4 for next mention.

The government is seeking to forfeit RM11.9 million from Bustari, RM628,314 from Jakel, RM4.6 million from Media Edge CIA and RM100,000 from Yayasan PBAKM.

They are among 41 forfeiture lawsuits filed by MACC, which is seeking to recover RM270 million which it said was from 1MDB.

Meanwhile, former minister Kasitah Gaddam, who was present in court today, has filed an affidavit in response to the lawsuit.

Kasitah, who is representing himself, was alleged to have received RM100,000.

“This case is straightforward,” Kasitah said.