What was the alleged scheme for personal gains involving timber concessions?

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Sabah Foundation Alleges Scheme Involving RM872 Million in Timber Concessions

Sabah Foundation has filed a lawsuit against former chief minister Tan Sri Musa Aman, seeking RM872 million for alleged losses stemming from dubious timber concession awards. The foundation claims that Musa, in his capacity as chairman of the board of trustees, orchestrated a scheme to sell off the foundation's concession areas to selected companies for personal enrichment. This alleged scheme involved systematically selling these areas for RM1,600 to RM2,000 per hectare, with businessman Michael Chia employed to negotiate transactions for ill-gotten gains.
Allegations of Misappropriation of Funds

The lawsuit details how monies procured under the alleged fraudulent scheme were diverted from purchasers to companies in tax-free jurisdictions, specifically mentioning the British Virgin Islands. These funds were then channelled to Michael Chia's bank accounts in Singapore and Hong Kong. Subsequently, the money was further diverted from Chia to Richard Christopher Barnes, who served as Musa's personal advisor.
Substantial Payments and Diversion of Funds

Reports indicate that Michael Chia received substantial payments on separate occasions, including US$42 million and US$90 million. Upon his arrest in Hong Kong, US$42 million in cash was reportedly found in his possession. The foundation claims these funds were ultimately transferred to Umno Sabah in an effort to shield Musa from criminal prosecution.
Previous Corruption Charges and Acquittal

This civil action follows previous legal proceedings where the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission had filed 30 corruption charges against Musa. These charges accused him of receiving approximately RM263 million from various lumber companies that were granted concessions, with some of these funds allegedly diverted to his sons studying in Perth. However, on June 9, Musa was acquitted and discharged on all 30 corruption and 16 related money laundering charges.

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What was the alleged scheme for personal gains involving timber concessions?

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