Couple scammed of RM52,000 receives full refund from bank after DAP Sarawak intervention

KUCHING (March 28): A couple who lost RM52,000 to an investment scam linked to a bank’s former employee have finally received a full refund.

Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen said the couple was initially given back RM24,400, with the bank citing ‘suspicious source of funds’ as the reason for withholding the remaining amount.

“After my intervention two weeks ago, I was informed that the bank finally refunded the balance of RM27,600 to the couple on Friday,” said the Stampin MP and Padungan assemblyman in a statement.

Chong acknowledged that while RM27,600 might not be significant to any banking institution or large corporation, it represented substantial, hard-earned savings for ordinary individuals.

“The wife came to my office (on Friday) expressing her gratitude.

“It’s a pleasure to hear that our effort has borne some fruits and helped the couple get back their hard-earned savings,” he said.

Adding on, Chong said the couple was among more than 70 bank customers who fell victim to the scam, which he exposed in late November last year.

He said the total losses amounted to approximately RM11 million.

“Amongst those who have sought assistance from me, more than 80 per cent of the scammed funds have been returned to the victims.

“While those who have received full refunds feel relieved, I will continue to assist those who have yet to receive their refunds and will keep pressing the bank to do so,” Chong gave his assurance.