Two Sabah assemblymen charged in a high-profile corruption case said they are placing their trust in the judicial process, expressing confidence that the courts will vindicate them.

Datuk Yusof Yacob and Datuk Andi Suryady Bandy, who both pleaded not guilty on Monday to accepting bribes totalling RM350,000 from businessman Datuk Tei Jiann Cheing, insisted they had done no wrong and would prove their innocence in court.

“I want to stress that I firmly believe we are not guilty in this corruption case,” said Yusof, who is also chairman of state investment arm Qhazanah Sabah.

The Sindumin assemblyman added that while they may have been “humiliated in the media,” the trial would be their chance to set the record straight.

“Both Andi and I hold on to the principle that a person is innocent until proven guilty. We are confident that through this process, we will clear our names,” he told reporters after posting bail outside the Kota Kinabalu court complex.

Andi, who is also assistant minister to the Chief Minister and represents Pintasan, echoed the sentiment, saying the legal process should not interfere with their roles as elected representatives.

“I will comply fully with all court procedures, which uphold the sovereignty of the rule of law in our country,” he said.

“Yusof and I will prove our innocence, clear our names, and God willing, everything will go smoothly.”

The 43-year-old said he remains committed to his constituency and will continue carrying out his duties while the case proceeds.

The two were charged separately under Section 16(a)(A) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009 — a provision that criminalises soliciting or receiving gratification as an inducement or reward. Convictions can lead to up to 20 years in prison and a fine of no less than five times the amount received.

Andi allegedly received RM150,000 to facilitate a prospecting licence for Syarikat Sinaran Hayat Sdn Bhd, while Yusof is accused of accepting RM200,000 from Tei, also known as Albert Tei, in relation to a similar application.

Tei, who hails from Selangor, was also charged with two counts of giving bribes to the politicians. All three accused claimed trial.

Their case has been fixed for case management on August 5. – June 30, 2025