Why did Ahmad Zahid deny feeling grateful for the donations?

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Ahmad Zahid Denied Gratitude Due to Perceived Implication of Bribery

Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated he did not feel grateful for donations received by Yayasan Akalbudi because he understood the prosecution was implying he was overly eager to accept bribes. He asserted that the donor, rather than himself, should be the one feeling grateful for divine blessings. Ahmad Zahid maintained that the funds were directed to the charitable foundation, which serves religious purposes and is not for his personal gain, and that the donor never requested any reciprocal assistance.
Clarification on Emotional Response to Donations

During his defence testimony, Ahmad Zahid was questioned about a RM13.25 million donation made via 24 cheques to Lewis & Co, a law firm holding funds for Yayasan Akalbudi. His lawyer highlighted the prosecution's suggestion that it would be natural for him to feel "syukur dan gembira" (grateful and happy) upon receiving such a substantial sum. Ahmad Zahid responded that he understood the implied meaning behind this suggestion, interpreting it as an insinuation that he was "trigger happy" to receive bribe money, even though a direct accusation was not made.
Nature and Purpose of Yayasan Akalbudi

Ahmad Zahid reiterated his prior testimony that Yayasan Akalbudi is a charitable foundation established for religious purposes, aimed at eradicating poverty and assisting the underprivileged. He emphasised that while the donations would benefit the foundation, they were not for his personal benefit. His stance was that any positive outcome for the donor would be a matter between the donor and Allah.
Absence of Reciprocal Requests from Donor

In response to further questioning, Ahmad Zahid confirmed that the businessman, Junaith Asharab Md Shariff, who provided the donations, never sought any assistance or favours in return for his contributions. This statement aimed to counter any suggestion that the donations were conditional or part of a quid pro quo arrangement.
Conclusion of Defence Witness Testimony

Ahmad Zahid concluded his testimony as a defence witness after spending 17 days on the stand in his trial, which involves 47 charges of corruption, money laundering, and criminal breach of trust. His legal team indicated plans to call an additional 40 defence witnesses, and the trial is scheduled to resume on September 19.

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Why did Ahmad Zahid deny feeling grateful for the donations?

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