Officials were scratching their heads over a RM1.07 billion charity pledge from a Lebanese businessman whose credibility has been questioned in the media.

The massive "donation" to the National Cancer Council from Malaysia-based businessman Elie Youssef Najem (left) made front-page news over the weekend after a press conference held by delighted charity officials.

But the headlines were replaced today with a series of complaints from people who said he had cheated them out of their wages and out of large sums owed for everything from flowers to furniture.

Reports said that charges for criminal breach of trust had been lodged with police against Najem, who claims to be worth US$46 billion.

Health Minister Chua Soi Lek also cast doubt on the credibility of the businessman who reportedly lives in a modest apartment in Kuala Lumpur.

"I find it hard for it to be true because it's a huge amount," Chua was quoted as saying in the New Straits Times.

Canadian lord, Lebanese prince

The newspaper said a number of former workers and contractors had complained about Najem.

"I had my doubts when he claimed to be a lord in Canada and a prince in Lebanon," said Farizatul Akma, who quit work after one day after seeing the businessman's cheques bouncing.

"We know who this individual is and he has been investigated previously for cheating and alleged criminal breach of trust," city commercial crimes chief Assistant Commissioner Aris Ramli told the newspaper.

Najem, 45, could not be reached for comment but has insisted he is a bone fide businessman.

"I come from a very important family in the Middle East and my donations to the National Cancer Council involve people high up in Malaysian society," he was quoted as saying in the Star daily on Monday.