Nazri: I didn't instruct the GLCs, I only advised them

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Nazri Abdul Aziz has admitted that he sent letter to government-linked companies (GLCs) on Aug 8 over the settlement with former Malaysia Airlines chairperson Tajudin Ramli, but denied instructing them to drop their suits against the tychoon.

Nazri said the move was in his capacity as de facto law minister, and came on the heels of moves by Tajudin (left) over the past several months to come to a settlement with the government over the companies' suit against him.

It was therefore not compulsory for the companies to settle their suit, but it was conveyed to them that it was advisable given the possible senarios the new situation had presented, said Nazri.

The alternative was for the GLCs to further slog it out with Tajudin without a guarantee as to when it would be resolved.

“Tajudin had been in contact with us for the past six months proposing for a settlement.

"I wrote to the GLCs after gaining approval from the Second Finance Minister Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah, and as a law minister to the effect, as this case has been going on for so long - six years," Nazri told Malaysiakini when contacted.

He stressed further that it was "not necessary" for the GLCs to follow his advice as it was up to them to decide based on what they deemed was in their best interests.

"If they feel they can win they can continue on with fighting the suit. As a legal entity, they have the right to make their own decision.

“I only wrote to them to remind them Tajudin has approached (the government) with a view to settle, and I merely asked them to look into it,” he said.

The minister said further that the court cases could drag on without an assurance of victory.

“Lets say this case goes for a trial, it will take another five to six years' and on appeal. It may (even) take another 10 years. We do not know whether the suit will go our way or in favour of Tajudin. Hence, that is why the out-of-court settlement was proposed.

“However, if we settle, it must not be at an additional cost to the government,” he assured.

Earlier today, former deputy prime minister-turned opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim questioned Nazri's actions in writing to the GLCs.

Instructions to GLCs to drop their legal suits should come from the finance ministry, not Nazri, said Anwar.

[More to follow]