A BUSINESSMAN’S recent claims of alleged corruption against Sabah politicians have brought about urgent questions to Malaysia’s whistleblower laws and laws in Sabah.

The allegations centre on political funds given to Sabah figures with the expectation of favours, with claims suggesting the businessman sought a prospecting mining licence in return.

The businessman alleges that, instead of him getting the promised licence, it was given to someone else allegedly associated with the Sabah Chief Minister, prompting him to ‘let the cat out of the bag’ and seek federal whistleblower protection.

The authority over prospecting licences rests with state agencies under the Chief Minister’s department, giving the office considerable sway over mineral licensing.

Indeed, such a scenario could spark conflict-of-interest concerns.

Yet, the Sabah Land Ordinance grants autonomy to Sabah over its own resources, allowing the state to manage land use independently — a distinction that can complicate transparency if decision-making appears politically influenced.

Political funding

Malaysia’s lack of robust political funding laws fuels the perception of corruption and donations can blur into bribes when paired with implicit promises of rewards.

Donations intended as political support are instead seen as transactions, with funds allegedly given in return for approvals, underscoring the need for clear political funding regulations.

Note that in this current scandal, the said businessman did not...

Read Full Story: https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMizAFBVV95cUxPQ2VQbnNRU2N5SXhodGc4MzhQ...