Chong Zhemin Challenges Wee Ka Siong to Debate on EPF’s Privatisation Deal
PETALING JAYA: DAP’s Chong Zhemin has challenged MCA president Wee Ka Siong to a debate on the alleged losses incurred by the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) in a privatisation deal involving an airport operator.
Chong’s Challenge
Chong, the Kampar MP, made the challenge in a statement, saying that Wee had, in 10 videos, claimed that EPF lost RM500 million in the Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) privatisation deal. Chong stated that Wee had persisted with these claims despite him explaining otherwise.
"In order to clear the public’s doubts, I hereby challenge Wee to a debate on the EPF-MAHB transaction," Chong said, adding that Wee could pick the date, time, and venue. "I urge Wee to accept the challenge."
Background to the Dispute
The dispute between Chong and Wee dates back to February, when Chong said he was prepared to quit politics if Wee could prove that EPF had suffered financial losses. The issue gained prominence after the Gateway Development Alliance achieved a 94.47% acceptance level for its takeover offer for all of MAHB’s shares under its privatisation plan.
Chong’s Arguments
Chong has argued that the claim that EPF suffered losses is puzzling, as the statutory body would have profited RM3 per share from initially buying MAHB at RM2 and then selling it at RM5. With EPF now buying it back at a higher price of RM11 per share, Chong believes that the price would continue to rise.
Rejection of Motion
Earlier this month, Wee, the Ayer Hitam MP, revealed that a motion filed by Chong to refer him to the Dewan Rakyat’s rights and privileges committee had been rejected. Wee then urged Chong to fulfil his promise to quit politics.
Conclusion
The debate between Chong and Wee is an important one, as it sheds light on the alleged losses incurred by EPF in the MAHB privatisation deal. As the public seeks clarity on the issue, it is crucial that both parties engage in a constructive and transparent discussion to address the concerns of the people.
FAQs
- What is the dispute between Chong Zhemin and Wee Ka Siong?
- The dispute centers on the alleged losses incurred by the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) in a privatisation deal involving an airport operator.
- What is the background to the dispute?
- The dispute dates back to February, when Chong said he was prepared to quit politics if Wee could prove that EPF had suffered financial losses.
- What are Chong’s arguments on the issue?
- Chong has argued that the claim that EPF suffered losses is puzzling, as the statutory body would have profited RM3 per share from initially buying MAHB at RM2 and then selling it at RM5. With EPF now buying it back at a higher price of RM11 per share, Chong believes that the price would continue to rise.