"Where did this story come from? Who said so? He will be back very soon".

That's the reaction of Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on yesterday's front-page news report in Sin Chew Daily which claimed that Transport Minister Chan Kong Choy had resigned.

The report said that Chan had submitted a resignation letter prior to leaving for Australia, where he is currently seeking medical treatment.

Speaking to Bernama at the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Leaders' Summit in Sydney today, Abdullah said Chan was merely on medical leave.

Abdullah said Chan had indeed submitted a letter, with the intention to seek medical leave.

Oriental Daily report

"Chan sought my permission to go on 12 days' leave and I allowed him to take leave," said Abdullah, adding that Chan would resume work soon.

Chan had abruptly left for Australia several days prior to the 50th Merdeka anniversary celebrations sparking widespread speculations over the move.

In another development, Oriental Daily News today also reported that Chan had submitted a resignation letter to Abdullah but it was rejected.

The report also said that Chan, who is also MCA deputy president, would be returning to Malaysia next week and resume duty as transport minister.


Related stories
Shadow play behind Chan's 'resignation'?
Ka Ting mum on deputy's move