Hydroshoppe Sdn Bhd and its director aim to move their bribery trial to the High Court, citing complex legal issues linked to a KL Tower concession takeover.
KUALA LUMPUR: Hydroshoppe Sdn Bhd and its director are seeking to transfer their high-profile bribery trial to the High Court.
The case involves an alleged offer of RM500,000 annually over 15 years in connection with the takeover of the Kuala Lumpur Tower concession.
A motion for the transfer was filed by Datuk Abdul Hamid Shaikh Abdul Razak Shaikh and the company on April 1 through Messrs Chetan Jethwany & Company.
In his supporting affidavit, Abdul Hamid argued the case involves complex legal and constitutional issues beyond the scope of a Sessions Court.
He stated the charges involve two separate entities, raising concerns over self-incrimination and potential double jeopardy.
Abdul Hamid added that a High Court trial would allow for appeals to higher courts for a final determination on constitutional matters.
The case is linked to an alleged bribe offer to former Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Nurul Qistini Qamarul Abrar informed the Sessions Court that the High Court will hear the transfer application on May 15.
She requested the trial dates scheduled for May 7 and 8 be vacated pending the outcome of the application.
Defence counsel Tang Jia Yearn raised no objections to the prosecution’s request.
Sessions Court Judge Suzana Hussin allowed the application to vacate the May dates.
The judge maintained other previously scheduled trial dates stretching into 2026.
Abdul Hamid was charged on April 5, 2023, with offering a bribe to expedite the KL Tower concession takeover.
He faces a charge under Section 16(b)(B) of the MACC Act 2009, which carries a severe penalty.
The offence allegedly occurred at the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia in Putrajaya between July and August 2022.
Hydroshoppe is also charged under Section 17A(1)(a) of the MACC Act 2009 as a commercial organisation.
This charge is punishable by a substantial fine or imprisonment upon conviction.
