PETALING JAYA – Former Malaysian economy minister Rafizi Ramli said on May 1 he expects to face charges of breach of trust or another crime soon, following a summons from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission over a government deal with British chipmaker Arm Holdings.
Rafizi, who has been asked to give a statement at MACC headquarters in Putrajaya on May 4, described the probe as targeting alleged abuse of power, fraud and governance flaws in the RM1.11 billion ($358 million) joint venture that began last year to boost Malaysia’s semiconductor industry.
The investigation, underway since February, centers on the deal under which Arm provides chip design intellectual property and subsystems to Malaysia over 10 years, with payments spread out and royalties on future sales. Rafizi anticipates charges possibly for providing false information or rushing Cabinet approval, calling any trial long and involving top leaders as witnesses.
Despite the scrutiny, Rafizi noted the partnership remains active and hailed by officials as a success for advancing local AI chip production. He quipped on social media that politicians should stay silent if they disagree with decisions, warning his case serves as a lesson against speaking out.
Rafizi, who has arranged legal representation, plans to discuss the matter further in his next podcast. The probe has already summoned over a dozen people, including ex-officials, amid claims from Rafizi that it carries no monetary motive and feels politically driven.