Phoong Jin Zhe rejects ‘malicious’ allegations by Albert Tei, vows legal action

KOTA KINABALU (Dec 15): Sabah Deputy Minister and DAP leader Phoong Jin Zhe has strongly refuted allegations made against him by Albert Tei during a recent live broadcast, describing the claims as “extremely malicious” and defamatory.

In a statement issued today, Phoong said he was “deeply disgusted and outraged” by Tei’s remarks and has consulted his lawyers to initiate legal proceedings to defend his reputation.

“I will not compromise on this matter,” he said.

Phoong emphasised that the claims made by Tei were a distortion of facts.

“His account of what was discussed during our only conversation is completely baseless and seriously misleading. Such statements amount to character assassination and constitute defamation through fabrication of falsehoods,” he said.

He clarified that he never initiated any meeting with Tei, nor did he make remarks such as “who doesn’t love money” or any similar statements.

Phoong acknowledged that he had met Tei once for a brief discussion, but denied any involvement in Sabah mining matters as alleged.

“Our first and only meeting took place at noon on 22 March 2023. Albert insisted on seeing me despite having no prior appointment in my schedule, stating even a brief meeting would do. As a Minister and elected representative, my office is routinely open, and meeting members of the public is part of my official duties. I therefore agreed to a 15-minute meeting,” Phoong explained.

He added that the meeting was not pre-arranged and that he did not know Tei personally. During the meeting, Tei raised mining matters and proposed establishing a concessionary company to manage Sabah’s scrap metal exports.

“After the meeting, we unanimously agreed that his proposals could not be accepted, and there was no follow-up whatsoever,” Phoong said.

Phoong stressed that he had never received any money from Tei, and neither he nor the DAP had any involvement in Sabah mining processes or agreements regarding scrap metal exports.

On commentary relating to his electoral defeat, Phoong said he had fully accepted the voters’ verdict.

“I reiterate my commitment to reflect humbly, return to the grassroots, remain grounded, and work steadily, step by step, to regain the trust of the people,” he said.