The probe into the controversial allegation that MCA president Ong Tee Keat received a RM10 million donation from a business tycoon is by no means over, according to MACC director of investigations Datuk Mohd Shukri Abdull.

He said this when contacted by Malaysiakini.

"As far as we are concerned, we have not closed the case," said another MACC officer in response to reports that the anti-graft body had dropped the case.

NONE Social activist Robert Phang ( left) had reportedly told Sin Chew daily on Tuesday that the MACC had classified the case under "NFA" (no further action) due to the absence of new evidence.

Phang confirmed the report at a press conference today.

"MACC deputy chief commissioner Abu Kassim Mohamed himself told us that during an advisory panel meeting on Oct 27. He also told us to urge the public not to speculate," he said.

He also explained that members of the advisory panel have "every right to ask for cases to be reviewed during their monthly meetings with the MACC chief".

However, Phang concurred with Mohd Shukri as "following procedures, MACC still needs to do certain things before they can close a case".

"I was informed that under standing procedures in MACC, the final decision is made by the legal chief (Attorney General)," he added.

Cardinal rule broken charge

Outspoken Phang, 70, also hit out at the Association of Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ACCIM) president William Cheng for criticising Ong.

"It was most unsavoury when Cheng dragged the Chinese business community into the MCA political arena.

"Taking a combative stand against Ong, Cheng has broken the cardinal rule of remaining neutral.

"Never in the history has ACCIM ever taken a political stance, siding any faction in political battle," he said in a statement.

Phang said that ACCIM should stick to its role of "taking care of the business community, speaking up against wrongdoings and fighting corrupt practices that affect the business climate of the country".

acccim survey on sme for 2007 160407 william cheng "I am most shocked that Cheng, ( right ) whom I had known for decades, has gotten himself and the ACCIM into politics at a time when it should play the role of a mediator for the Chinese community.

"It was only about two months ago when I had to persuade him to mediate among the warring factions of the 60-year-old MCA.

"Cheng declined, saying businessmen should remain apolitical. But I managed to persuade him to try and play the role of a mediator.

"I was therefore very surprised when I heard about Cheng's tirade against MCA and Ong," he added.

Cheng was reported as saying that Ong "did nothing for the Chinese community since becoming president last year" in a Chinese daily early this week.

Phang urged Cheng to get his facts and priorities right as the leader of ACCIM.

"Do not deviate and confuse the public," he said.

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