Malaysia charges ex-Mahathir aide Daim Zainuddin with failure to declare assets

The 86-year-old Daim, who arrived at court in a wheelchair, was charged with failing to disclose his fortune as required by the MACC. Prosecutors allege his undeclared assets span a collection of high-end cars, including a Rolls-Royce, as well as 38 companies and 25 properties.

The ex-minister under Mahathir’s government pleaded not guilty. Daim faces up to five years jail and a maximum fine of 100,000 ringgit (US$21,100) if found guilty.

He was released on bail of 280,000 ringgit. Prosecutors had asked the court to confiscate Daim’s passport but his lawyer M Puravalen argued against it.

“He’s not going to go anywhere,” he said, pointing at the accused’s wheelchair.

Chief among the accusers is Mahathir, the 98-year-old former mentor turned arch enemy of Anwar.

Mahathir’s sons Mirzan and Mokhzani have also been ordered to reveal their assets by the MACC.