Was Harapan coin sold illegally? asks KJ

PARLIAMENT | Rembau MP Khairy Jamaluddin has questioned if Pakatan Harapan had sold its cryptocurrency Harapan coin illegally.

"As far as I know, no cryptocurrency has been approved by Bank Negara Malaysia as this is seen as a high-risk asset that is not backed by (another) asset or government's guarantee," he said when debating the Budget 2019 at Dewan Rakyat today.

"While I was made to understand Pakatan Harapan wishes to establish its own currency, dubbed Harapan coin, this is an initiative that has yet to be approved by the central bank," he said.

He then questioned if Harapan had started selling its cryptocurrency as stated in 'harapancoin.com', a website that was launched by Patakan Harapan to collect election fund before 14th general election.

"According to the website, Harapan coin was sold at US$40 per 100 units and had thus far collected US$772 (sales)," he said.

"I wish to know if the operation has been conducted illegally as it has yet to receive approval from Bank Negara," he said.

Previously, Amanah communications director Khalid Samad has reportedly said he would propose the Harapan Coin to Bank Negara and Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

The Federal Territories minister said the cryptocurrency could be used for government transactions such as licence fees, payment of summonses and many others.

[More to follow] - Mkini