The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) must ensure that no investigations against outgoing Sarawak Chief Minister Abdul Taib Mahmud are closed, said an opposition leader.
 
With Taib tipped to be the next Sarawak governor, PKR strategy director Rafizi Ramli also called on Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, who is entrusted to advise the Yang di Pertuan Agong on this matter, to be stern on any candidate considered for the esteemed post.
 
"MACC has to make a declaration that there are no on-going investigations that will be closed on the candidate. This is to ensure the post of governor is not used for someone to gain immunity," he said.
 
The Pandan MP said the issue highlighted by Sarawak Report yesterday strengthened allegations that a company linked to Taib's brother is being investigated for wrongdoing in acquiring logging concession.
 
The company had been investigated by the Japanese authorities with regard to allegations of tax evasion on receiving commissions or kickbacks.
 
Sarawak Report , Rafizi said, managed to produce documentary evidence after the transfer of US$20 million (RM66.49 million) from the company linked to Taib’s brother to one of the chief minister’s daughters and her husband.
 
"I understand that this is being investigated by the authorities there. This shows the Japanese investigations on allegations of tax evasion would lead to investigations on the present chief minister itself for allegedly receiving kickbacks from the timber concession," he added.
 
In 2007, Taib had denied any links with the company owned by his brother.
 
Following this latest development, Rafizi is slated to lodge a new MACC report against Taib tomorrow.