My lawsuit not an act of revenge, says Shahrir Samad

Former Johor Baru MP Tan Sri Shahrir Abdul Samad testified in court that his lawsuit was not a retaliatory move, but rather to ensure proper enforcement of powers. Speaking at the High Court, Shahrir, 76, clarified that the immense powers to investigate, seize, arrest and prosecute should only be exercised after a proper investigation of fundamental aspects.

He emphasized that anyone, including himself, could be investigated if there were valid grounds for it. Shahrir did not claim immunity from investigation but insisted that investigations must be thorough and fair before arresting and charging someone with a serious offence. The lawsuit, filed against former AG Tan Sri Tommy Thomas, former MACC Chief Commissioner Latheefa Koya, the MACC, and the government, concerns malicious prosecution allegations.

In January 2020, Shahrir was charged in the Sessions Court with failing to declare RM1 million received from former PM Datuk Seri Najib Razak to the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN). This case was later transferred to the High Court for trial. On January 5, 2023, the High Court acquitted Shahrir after the prosecution decided not to proceed with the case, following testimony from MACC investigating officer Nurzahidah Yacop who stated she had not investigated whether the RM1 million was income or a reimbursement.

Shahrir maintained that the RM1 million was a reimbursement from Najib, not income, as he had arranged a meeting with Najib in late 2013 to discuss the restoration of Puri Langkasuka and seek reimbursement for personal savings he had advanced for the project's repair costs and further restoration work.