Bandar Kuching MP Chong Chieng Jen has written to Sarawak Chief Minister Abdul Taib Mahmud asking him to explain a recent report in the Japan Times implicating him and his family members in alleged RM32 million kickbacks paid by Japanese shipping companies transporting Sarawak logs to Japan.

"It is very important (that he explains) because it has not only been reported in Japan but also in Hong Kong as well as the Malaysian media and this will bring disrepute to the state government if left unexplained," he told a press conference in Kuching today.

Chong, who is also state assemblyperson for Kota Sentosa and Sarawak DAP secretary, said: "In all fairness, I believe we should allow the CM to be heard first as a responsible party leader."

In his letter to the CM, Chong said he enclosed extracts of reports on the matter from Japan Times and malaysiakini, and urged Taib to explain the matter, especially on the following five points.

  1. What is the relationship between Dewaniaga Sarawak Sdn Bhd with the state government, and what is its right in relation to the export of timber from Sarawak?

  2. Who owns Regent Star, the company registered in Hong Kong which was alleged to be related to Taib's family members?

  3. What role did Regent Star play in the export of timber from Sarawak that warrants the receipt of commission to the extent of RM32 million over the past seven years?

  4. What is the role of Achi Jaya Transportation Sdn Bhd in the export of timber from Sarawak to Japan?

  5. Was there any exclusive or monopolistic rights Achi Jaya Transportation has over the export of logs, timber or timber products from Sarawak?

Biggest shareholder

Achi Jaya is the biggest shareholder in Dewaniaga Sarawak Sdn Bhd holding 120,000 shares, or more than 50% of the company's equity.

Chong said that under the principles of transparency and accountability, the chief minister should explain the points raised "so that the public will not continue to speculate in the dark."

"If all are above board, then the explanation by the CM will clear the air and restore international confidence in the integrity of the state government," he added.

Chong disclosed that a search with the Commission of Companies show that Taib's two brothers - Mohammad Tufail Mahmud and Onn Mahmud - and sister Fredahanam Mahmud (wife of former state secretary Abdul Aziz Hussain) are directors of Achi Jaya Transportation.

The other directors are Chiew Chee Hung and Noor Zakri Abdul Ghani.