By Syed Jaymal Zahiid
The two Tourism Malaysia high-ranking officials implicated in the ‘Korean scandal’ have been suspended, according to sources today. The sources told Malaysiakini that the two-month suspension took effect starting today.
However, Seoul office director Abdul Mutalib Awang and North Asian regional director Ramzi Abu Yazid will be receiving their monthly salaries.
The suspension comes despite Tourism Minister Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor’s (photo) announcement that an internal probe had cleared the duo of any wrongdoing.
On Jan 11, Malaysiakini reported that Abdul Mutalib and Ramzi had allegedly pocketed RM850,000 slated for the production of a video to promote Malaysia to South Koreans.
Sources had furnished Malaysiakini with documentary evidence of their allegations against the duo and an accomplice by the name of Tan Poh Eng, a Malaysian-based graphic designer.
‘Ministry trying to cover up’
Sources claimed that early last year, Ramzi had suggested to the Tourism Malaysia Seoul office to produce a promotional video of Malaysian tourist attractions.
Mutalib allegedly agreed and the project was tendered to one Sekyung Communications Co Ltd, said to be established by his South Korean friends.
It was alleged that Ramzi and Tan would pick up the money and transfer it back to Malaysia.
Following the report, the minister announced that an internal probe will be conducted to determine the veracity of the accusations.
The matter also became the subject of an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA).
Accusations of a cover-up
Sources said they are puzzled by the suspension in the light of Tengku Adnan’s announcement and alleged that the ministry is trying to ‘cover up’ the matter.
“How can they (Ramzi and Mutalib) be cleared of any wrongdoings and yet be suspended?” they asked.
Tengku Adnan, who was also implicated in the scandal but denied any involvement, was again accused by sources of turning a blind eye to the allegation.
Despite several attempts, Malaysiakini could not obtain a confirmation on the suspension from the Tourism Malaysia headquarters or the Tourism Ministry.
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