Tun Dr Ling in the Palace of Justice

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Former president of MCA (the main Chinese-wing party of the ruling coalition BN), Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, 67, was charged at the Putrajaya Sessions Court of Palace of Justice, on July 29, with cheating the Malaysian Government. That is, he was said to be involved in the Port Klang Free Zone (PFKZ) scandal. The ever calm and smiling Tun pleaded not guilty. He was granted bail of RM1 million by Judge Suzana Hussin. Tun posted the bail.

The offence was allegedly committed at the Prime Minister’s office in Putrajaya between Sept 25 and Nov 6, 2002. The basic charge is that he had knowingly deceived the cabinet in approving the purchase of a land for a major project, the cost of which had escalated tremendously.

Following the prosecution, the ever all knowing former Malaysian Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Muhammad who was at the helm when Tun Dr Ling was the Transport Minister, commented that this was just an accusation and Tun Dr Ling is innocent until proven guilty.

Wow! RM1 million bail just for an accusation!