Why did Ewe provide contradictory statements to MACC investigators?

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Ewe Swee Kheng Provided Contradictory Statements to MACC Due to a Belief in Lim Guan Eng's Invincibility and a Desire to Recount His Knowledge of State Land Ownership.

The late businessman Ewe Swee Kheng provided differing accounts to Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) investigators, initially stating no duress during July 2020 interrogations, but later expressing slight worry for his safety in a supplementary statement in August 2021. This shift was attributed, in part, to Ewe's perception that Lim Guan Eng was "untouchable" during the Pakatan Harapan administration, particularly as investigations into the undersea tunnel project were underway.
Initial Statement Made Without Mention of Duress

During his initial statement recorded between July 22 and July 24, 2020, Ewe Swee Kheng did not convey any sense of being under duress or experiencing fear. The MACC recording officer, Mohamad Hambia, testified that Ewe affirmed he was comfortable and not fearful when questioned, adhering to standard operating procedures. This initial disclosure was made in relation to the RM6.3 billion Penang undersea tunnel and paired roads project.
Supplementary Statement Cited Worry and Belief in Lim Guan Eng's Immunity

In a supplementary statement provided on August 14, 2021, Ewe indicated he was "slightly worried" for his safety following his initial confession. He also communicated to Mohamad's colleague that he believed Lim Guan Eng was "untouchable" during the Pakatan Harapan's tenure when the tunnel project investigations had commenced. Despite this, Ewe stated in the August 2021 session that he was not coerced or threatened into giving the supplementary statement, asserting a desire to simply tell the truth.
Knowledge of State Lands Obtained from an Unspecified Individual

Ewe admitted in his August 2021 statement that his knowledge regarding specific state-owned lands, Lot 702 and Lot 713, originated from another individual. These land parcels are central to charges against Lim Guan Eng concerning dishonest misappropriation of property. Ewe explicitly stated that he did not obtain this information from Lim Guan Eng or Datuk Lim Hock Seng.
Ewe Swee Kheng's Unfulfilled Role as a Witness

Ewe Swee Kheng was slated to be a key prosecution witness in the case. However, his testimony was never fully delivered as he passed away on October 5, 2021. His death occurred after he reportedly fell from a condominium in Penang, cutting short his involvement in the proceedings.

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Why did Ewe provide contradictory statements to MACC investigators?

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