Lobak Assemblyman's corruption allegation causes uproar

The claim by Siow Kim Leong (DAP-Lobak) that he received a report relating to corruption involving a Seremban Municipal Council officer caused an uproar at the State Legislative Assembly sitting today.

He claimed to have received the information from a member of the public when debating on the motion of thanks for the Negeri Sembilan Yang Dipertuan Besar's royal address.

However his debate was interrupted when Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan stood up and said Siow's allegation on the matter was deemed to have violated the standing orders.

"I request that the Yang Berhormat withdraw his allegation or lodge a formal complaint with the MACC (Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission)," he said.

Adamant not to withdraw his claim, Siow was later reprimanded by State Assembly Speaker Datuk Dr Awaluddin Said who insisted he reported it to the relevant authorities if it was true.

"For the record only, the information was passed to me," said Siow.

Mohamad (BN-Rantau), however, stood up again and said Siow's claim should not be recorded in the hansard as it allegedly involved an officer with elements of corruption.

Awaluddin again advised Siow to refer to MACC and not bring it up for debate in the assembly.

The situation became tense when Datuk Abdul Rahman Mohd Redza (BN-Linggi) also stood up and agreed with the Speaker that Siow's allegation tarnished the image of MPS officers.

Datuk Hasim Rusdi (BN-Labu) wanted the Speaker to take stern action against Siow while Mohamad again stood up and asked that the Lobak assemblyman be brought before the Disciplinary Committee.

Siow, however, was given an ultimatum by Awaluddin to withdraw his claim or leave the assembly sitting. He later withdrew his allegation. -- Bernama