Elopura assemblyman Calvin Chong has rejected any suggestion that he accused Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali of corruption, saying the minister should prove his innocence through proper channels rather than “harassing” critics privately.

The Warisan lawmaker said his earlier call for the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to investigate Armizan had been distorted by certain quarters.

“If he had carefully read my statement, he would understand that I merely urged the MACC to carry out further investigations. I never made any false allegations, nor have I accused him of corruption,” reads Chong’s post on Facebook on Saturday.

His response comes after Armizan, who is Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Domestic Trade and Cost of Living), issued a public statement denying any involvement in a mineral-related corruption scandal in Sabah. Armizan also demanded that three political figures — including Chong — reveal the sources of anonymous messages linking him to the alleged scandal.

Chong said it was unnecessary for Armizan to privately confront him over the matter, especially by questioning him about figures named in the viral message, such as a so-called investigative journalist “X7” and a mysterious “Datuk Z”.

“If he truly believes he has nothing to hide, he should just cooperate with the MACC when required,” Chong said.

“There’s no need to come to me insisting on his innocence or demanding that I identify these anonymous individuals. If I have any responsibility, I will cooperate with the authorities. But it is not for Armizan to question me personally.”

Chong added that his duty as a state assemblyman was to speak up for the public and ensure accountability, even when faced with pressure or criticism.

“Armizan has said repeatedly that he is not involved in corruption. I too have never accused him of it. So let him prove his innocence to the proper authorities. There is no need for him to say more or to make personal demands,” he said.

Armizan had earlier denied the allegations and said he would pursue legal action once the origin of the anonymous claims — widely circulated on social media — could be identified. – March 30, 2025