“When we knew about the Australian (properties purchase) scandal, we worked on a solution by seeking verification from the relevant ministries, like we always do,” he said.
He was responding to a question by lawyer William Leong, representing Pandan MP Rafizi Ramli, on whether he was concerned about Mara making losses through high priced purchases.
He was testifying in a lawsuit he took against Rafizi for allegedly defaming him by implying his (Khairul’s) involvement in the Mara scandal.
He claimed that he was concerned that Mara, as a government aid agency for Malay students, was making losses.
“Personally and for Umno, I am,” he said.
Khairul however said he did not rush to inform the people about the properties scandal.
Leong: Neither you or Umno Youth informed the people about it?
Khairul: No.
Leong: Isn’t it a must to inform the people as it’s a matter of public interest?
Khairul: No, because the information was not complete.
Khairul, also known by his Internet moniker “Azwanbro”, sued Rafizi for alleging that he was involved in the purchase and dealings of the 746 Swanston Street property, through Mara-owned Thrushcross Land Holdings Limited, which allegedly experienced leakages of RM63 million.
He said Rafizi’s statement, which was published by online portals, had painted him as corrupt, dishonest and that he had acted in his own financial interest and abused his position as the chairman of Biosis Group Berhad in the dealings.
Khairul is seeking general, aggravated and exemplary damages.
He told the court, when being re-examined by his lawyer M. Reza Hassan, that he has no direct knowledge, involvement or knowledge on the scandals as alleged by Rafizi.
“From his press statement he wants me to explain my role,” he said. “I do not know any of the transactions. I am not involved in Mara or the companies.”
“As I do not have information, how am I responsible to answer his allegations?”
Khairul told the court the statement injured his reputation as a businessman and he feels ashamed.
“Although I am a politician, my main earnings come from business. Such statements on my (purported) involvement damage my reputation in the corporate sector, with my business acquaintances, associates and bankers,” he said.
Khairul, looking agitated on the witness stand, went on to say that if politicians want to uphold justice, they should do it in a sincere, fair and healthy manner.
“I hope Rafizi realizes that he has created damage to my daily work,” he said. “I want justice (from the court) so that I can get back to my daily work life.”
Justice S. Nantha Balan ordered both Khairul and Rafizi to file their written submissions by July 22 and fixed August 1 for clarification.