1MDB debate for public to understand issues, says Tony Pua

DAP lawmaker Tony Pua says today he wants Malaysians to understand the issues surrounding 1MDB and is keen to debate with Arul Kanda Kandasamy on the state investor. – The Malaysian Insider pic by Seth Akmal, November 1, 2015.

DAP lawmaker Tony Pua said his decision to debate 1Malaysia Development Berhad president Arul Kanda Kandasamy was for the benefit of the people and their understanding of issues involving the state-owned investor.

“It does not matter who wins or loses in the debate or talk show with Arul. What is important is that the information can be put out there so the people can have a better understanding of the 1MDB issue,” said Pua.

He said the 1MDB scandal was a black mark against Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s leadership.

He said if the issue was not explained properly and correctly, it could have a negative impact on the economy and efforts to revive it.

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Nur Jazlan Mohamed yesterday reportedly said the debate between Pua and Arul Kanda would set back investigations into the debt-ridden firm.

Nur Jazlan said the debate was “childish” and criticised both for not thinking the matter through.

The former Public Accounts Committee (PAC) chief led investigations into 1MDB until he was appointed deputy home minister in a Cabinet reshuffle in July.

“PAC members were selected by Parliament and if this debate goes through, what is the point of having an investigation in the first place,” he said.

Pua is a member of the PAC.

Pua had challenged Arul Kanda to a live debate on 1MDB and the 1MDB chief responded by accepting it, albeit with a condition that Pua first relinquish his PAC post.

However, Arul Kanda yesterday withdrew the condition and said he was willing to debate Pua without any conditions.

Pua welcomed the move and said his team and Arul Kanda’s team would meet to trash out the details.

Radio Television Malaysia (RTM) is expected to host the live TV debate.

- TMI