With reference to an article by Raja Petra Kamaruddin published on news portal Malaysia Today on Sept 14, 2014 entitled: 'Idris Jala and Paul Low need to do a lot of explaining' I wish to categorically deny that I have any relationship – past or present, personal or business – with Ngau Boon Keat whatsoever.

I have never had the occasion to meet him in person to date, much less to know him  as a “good friend” as alleged in said article.

Secondly, I do not currently nor have I ever held any position in Johor Petroleum Development Corporation, and have no influence whatsoever on the appointment of board members to this particular body.

To the journalists and editors at Malaysia Today as well as members of the press in general, I would like to urge all to practice more responsibility in verifying your factual content before publishing your articles and commentaries in future.

Keeping the public informed is a privilege that comes with the responsibility to observe principles of integrity in fulfilling your duties as a journalist in a truthful and ethical manner.

PAUL LOW SENG KUAN is Minister in the Prime Minister's Department in charge of integrity.