Why does The Straits Times stand by its 1MDB reporting?

Question

Accepted Answer

The Straits Times Stands By Its Reporting on the 1MDB Scandal

The Straits Times (ST) maintains its stance on its two articles concerning the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) financial scandal, asserting that they are grounded in information from reliable and highly placed sources. The reporting, specifically the articles published on October 7 and October 14, addressed critical aspects of Malaysia's financial obligations related to 1MDB, including potential interest payments and the ballooning debt owed to Abu Dhabi entities.
Basis of Reporting on 1MDB Financial Matters

Editor Warren Fernandez affirmed that the two articles in question, titled "Looming US$70m 1MDB interest payment is key test for Malaysia" and "Malaysia’s 1MDB Debt to Abu Dhabi may have ballooned," were meticulously compiled. These reports drew upon documents and intelligence gathered from sources described as highly placed and credible, underscoring the paper's confidence in the information presented to its readership.
Documentation Challenges and Settlement Agreements

Regional correspondent Leslie Lopez, who authored the articles, indicated that Malaysian government lawyers might have faced challenges in obtaining documentation related to the settlement agreement between 1MDB and Abu Dhabi. This difficulty in sourcing official papers could explain any perceived lack of awareness regarding the specifics of the deal. Lopez reiterated that the payment made in October was the initial disbursement under the 1MDB settlement, facilitated by the preceding Barisan Nasional administration to avert a potentially detrimental arbitration proceeding.
Payment Schedules and Government Obligations

A review of the payment schedule by The Straits Times suggested that a final charge of US$52.41 million was due on May 7. The subsequent payment, which occurred shortly before the reporting date, represented the first financial commitment undertaken by the new Pakatan Harapan government in accordance with the settlement terms. This timeline highlights the continuity of financial obligations inherited by the new administration.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why does The Straits Times stand by its 1MDB reporting?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends