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THE Malaysian Anti-Corruption Agency (MACC) said it arrested a journalist from online news portal, Malaysiakini last night for allegedly receiving a bribe from an agent that deals with migrant workers.
Its chief commissioner Azam Baki told Malaysiakini that B Nantha Kumar was not detained because of the portal's recent article exposing a migrant trafficking cartel.
He said the journalist had allegedly solicited RM100,000 from the agent in exchange for not publishing two articles concerning the agent.
"The amount was eventually reduced to RM20,000, and the agent lodged a report with MACC, after which we carried out what is called a ‘trap case’," he said.
Azam said the journalist met the agent at Concorde Hotel in Shah Alam where the cash was handed over to the journalist.
“MACC officers arrested the journalist on the spot with the RM20,000,” he said.
The Putrajaya Magistrate’s Court today granted the MACC’s request to remand the journalist for four days.
Nantha - who has served with Malaysiakini since 2018 - has written extensively recently about immigration syndicates, including those involving the Immigration Department.
Malaysiakini executive editor RK Anand and managing editor Ng Ling Fong said the news portal is shocked by the allegation against its journalist.
“We have not heard Nantha’s version of what transpired. However, we will not compromise on any wrongdoing involving our staff.
“We will issue a statement once more information on the case becomes available.
“Malaysiakini will also extend its fullest cooperation to the authorities,” they added. – March 1, 2025