What became of Xavier’s corruption probe, asks Kua

Former Malaysian water, land and natural resources minister Xavier Jayakumar is the subject of a corruption investigation by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). His close associate, M A Thinagaran, was detained in 2022 on suspicion of accepting bribes related to a ministry project awarded in 2019 during Xavier's tenure as minister.

Former Petaling Jaya MP Kua Kia Soong, who served as MP from 1990 to 1995, has raised concerns about the investigation's status. Kua has questioned why there has been no public confirmation regarding whether Xavier has been charged, convicted, or cleared of wrongdoing. He has also questioned why there has been no clear communication about the case being closed if the investigation found insufficient evidence, and why the investigation has remained unresolved for such a long period if it is still open.

Kua emphasized the need for institutional clarity, stating that an independent anti-corruption agency should be able to disclose publicly whether the investigation remains active, has been closed, or has resulted in prosecution, where legally permissible. He urged Xavier to explain the circumstances surrounding his departure from PKR, citing allegations from former PKR leaders that MACC pressure may have contributed to his decision.

Kua framed the Xavier affair as a broader issue, stating that it represents something larger than just one former politician.