'Just rumours', says Saravanan over MACC probe on businessman with 'Datuk' title

PETALING JAYA: Former human resources minister Datuk Seri M Saravanan has refuted rumours that he would be quizzed by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to assist in a money laundering probe involving a businessman with a "Datuk" title.

Commenting on the issue, the Barisan Nasional man said it was "just rumours".

"Why should I entertain it? Just leave it," Saravanan was quoted as saying by FMT on Wed.

Previously, it was reported that one "Datuk Malik", real name Abdul Malik Dasthigeer, had been detained by MACC yesterday morning under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing, and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (Amla).

Yesterday, the media reported that the anti-graft body would call a former minister to facilitate the investigations into the businessman's dealings.

It is unknown why the business mogul, well-known for bringing in artists from India to perform Tamil concerts in Malaysia, was detained.

The FMT reported that a source close to Malik said the businessman is expected to be released on bail today.

The rumours about Saravanan's possibly being next to be called in came after pictures of him and Malik were widely shared on social media.

Saravanan responded that it is not illegal for a businessperson to take a photo with him in public, just like many others do.

Malik is the founder and chairman of the Malik Group of Companies.

The group consists of several companies, including Malik Streams Corporation Sdn Bhd, Malik Maju Sdn Bhd, Malik Streams Properties Sdn Bhd, Malik Streams Antenna Movies Sdn Bhd, and Malik Streams Production and Distribution.