Swiss-based NGO Bruno Manser Fund (BMF) has threatened to lobby the European Union (EU) to stop trade talks with Malaysia, should Sarawak Chief Minister Abdul Taib Mahmud becomes the state’s governor.

Among the talks targeted include timber trade talks under the EU’s Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) programme, and Free Trade Agreement negotiations between Malaysia with the EU and with the European Free Trade Association (Efta).

“We are making it very clear that the Malaysian government will have to face political consequences if it backs Abdul Taib - one of Southeast Asia’s most corrupt politicians - as governor of Sarawak...

“Malaysia should not be awarded with international trade agreements if the country fails to respect basic anti-corruption norms and protects kleptocrats like Abdul Taib,” the group said in a statement yesterday.

Abdul Taib had previously been accused of corruption and abuse of power, including in the timber industries. He has consistently denied any wrongdoings.

After a 33-year reign, he is set to retire at the end of the month, on the same day that the incumbent governor, Abang Muhammad Salahuddin Abang Barieng, will step down.

According to Bernama , Taib is expected have an audience with the Agong on Friday to receive his credentials as governor .