Businessman Albert Tei Jiann Cheng, 37, pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court on Thursday to four counts of bribery totalling RM176,829.03. The charges involve alleged gratification given to former senior political secretary to the prime minister, Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin.
Tei, dressed in a black coat over a green-collared T-shirt, told judge Suzana Hussin he wished to claim trial after the charges were read.
Alleged Bribes for Sabah Mineral Licences
Tei is accused of providing RM140,000 in cash and household furniture, including electrical appliances worth RM14,580.03 and RM22,249, as inducements. These were allegedly offered to help companies linked to him secure mineral exploration licences in Sabah.
The offences are said to have taken place between 24 November 2023 and 5 March 2024 at locations including a hotel car park on Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, Jalan Medang Serai in Bukit Bandaraya, and Precinct 14, Putrajaya.
Charges and Possible Penalties
All four charges were framed under Section 17(b) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009, punishable under Section 24(1). Upon conviction, Tei faces up to 20 years in jail and a fine of at least five times the gratification amount or RM10,000, whichever is higher.
The prosecution was led by Deputy Public Prosecutor Farah Ezlin Yusop Khan, while Tei was represented by lawyer Latheefa Koya. The case continues to draw attention amid an ongoing corruption probe involving political and business figures.
