Rafizi's ex-aide to return from overseas for MACC questioning on April 28

James Chai, who was an aide to former economy minister Rafizi Ramli, will return to Malaysia for questioning by the MACC regarding the RM1.1 billion government deal with British semiconductor giant Arm Holdings.

His lawyer, Ragunath Kesavan, confirmed this to Malaysiakini today.

“We act for (James) Chai Jin Shern, and we have been in communications with the MACC to facilitate and assist in their investigations.

“Our client is now scheduled to return to Malaysia on very short notice on the approval of his employer in London, and we have notified MACC that our client would be available and will attend (questioning on) April 28 at 10am.

“MACC has confirmed the suitability of the time and date,” he said.

Ragunath also stressed that Chai was contactable at all times, did not evade any investigations, made himself available to clarify his role, and expressed hopes of moving on “without any impediment”.

READ MORE: MACC claims Rafizi’s ex-aide blocked officer on WhatsApp

‘Be fair and professional’

In a separate statement on Instagram, Chai expressed hope that the MACC will conduct its investigations fairly and professionally.

“My faith in our country’s civil service has never wavered. I look forward to the opportunity to explain everything clearly and fully. 

“I am also grateful to have lawyers who have offered to help me on a pro bono basis,” he added.

Early this month, the MACC gave Chai two weeks to return to Malaysia to assist its probe into Arm’s dealings.

READ MORE: COMMENT | 'I am not Jho Low 2.0': Why PM and Azam are after me

The graft buster, who issued a wanted notice for Chai last month, said it had already granted him an extension until March 31 due to his work commitments and travel costs, but he still did not show up.

Accordingly, MACC issued a letter on April 1, requiring Chai to show up in two weeks. The agency also expressed willingness to cover the cost of his flight back to Malaysia.

“Should he continue to fail to attend after being granted two extensions, the commission will consider seeking cooperation through international channels, including Interpol or foreign enforcement agencies, to locate him and ensure his attendance,” the MACC said in a statement.

The commission is investigating allegations that Rafizi had rushed through the RM1.1 billion government deal with Arm.

Chai was an aide to the Pandan MP at the time of the deal and had worked for Arm temporarily during a transition period after the PKR leader quit as minister.

Both Chai and Rafizi have denied wrongdoing. Chai stated he mainly created presentation slides, while the ex-minister said MACC should question Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, claiming Anwar had a hand in approving the deal.

RM1.1b govt deal probe: MACC gives Chai 2 weeks to come back, will pay for flight

COMMENT | Chai's road from reformasi to reckoning

COMMENT | Chai made a 'wanted' man as Madani faces growing scrutiny over MACC

MACC claims Rafizi's ex-aide blocked officer on WhatsApp

COMMENT | 'I am not Jho Low 2.0': Why PM and Azam are after me