Late tycoon’s children say brother never subpoenaed by MACC

Kelvin and Cheryl Ta, children of the late Malaysian tycoon Ta Kin Yan, have expressed skepticism regarding a recent Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) announcement. The statement, released on September 11, declared that Jin Kiat, their elder brother, was sought by the agency to aid in an ongoing court case. However, Kelvin and Cheryl contend that their brother has never been formally subpoenaed by MACC to attend or contribute to any legal proceedings.

Sharing their concerns with reporters outside the Dang Wangi police headquarters, the siblings revealed that Jin Kiat, currently residing abroad, is apprehensive about returning home due to his personal address being publicly disclosed by MACC. Prompted by these worries, Kelvin and Cheryl lodged individual police reports, urging authorities to investigate their claims and secure the safety of Jin Kiat and their extended family.

On September 11, MACC had issued an appeal, requesting assistance from the public in locating Jin Kiat, a 48-year-old man, for involvement in a trial at Kuala Lumpur sessions court. The agency also alleged that Jin Kiat was under investigation under Section 409 of the Penal Code, which pertains to criminal breach of trust by a public servant or agent.

Kelvin mentioned that Jin Kiat was apprehended by MACC in March of the previous year, although he was uncertain about the nature of the alleged offense. He pointed out that Jin Kiat was subsequently released on bail provided by MACC.

The parents of the Ta siblings, Kin Yan, the founder and chairman of the Waz Lian group, passed away in June 2024. Kelvin and Cheryl questioned if the latest MACC action was connected to an ongoing dispute concerning shares in the family's companies, involving Jin Kiat and two half-siblings. They explained that Jin Kiat had commenced civil proceedings in the High Court in February of this year, disputing claims over the shares in question.