The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (SPRM) has issued a fresh two-week deadline for James Chai, a former aide to ex-Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, to return to Malaysia and assist in an ongoing investigation into the RM1.12 billion ARM investment case. Authorities have also confirmed their willingness to cover his travel expenses in a bid to secure his cooperation.
In a statement released today, SPRM said Chai had previously been granted two extensions to appear for questioning but failed to comply. Should he continue to remain absent, the commission indicated it may escalate the matter by seeking assistance through international channels, including INTERPOL and foreign enforcement agencies, to locate him.
Chai, also known as Chai Jin Shern, has been identified as a key individual in the investigation. On 4 March, SPRM issued a notice to trace his whereabouts. Subsequently, the agency received a letter from his legal representative dated 9 March, stating that he was unable to attend due to flight costs and work commitments.
Responding to this, SPRM granted an extension via a letter dated 13 March, setting a new deadline of 31 March 2026. However, Chai did not confirm his attendance. The latest directive now requires him to present himself within two weeks, with the commission reiterating its offer to bear his return travel costs.
The anti-graft body stressed that all individuals summoned for investigations are legally obligated to cooperate. It further noted that if Chai maintains his innocence, the appropriate course of action would be to present himself for questioning rather than issuing statements publicly without engaging authorities.
SPRM underscored that no individual is above the law, adding that the investigation will proceed in a professional, independent, and evidence-based manner. The commission also revealed that inquiries into the ARM case are actively ongoing, reflecting the seriousness of the matter.
To date, statements have been recorded from 17 witnesses, including officials from the Ministry of Economy and related agencies such as the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). Key documents, including agreements and supporting materials, have also been secured, with eight more witnesses—some currently overseas—expected to be called in the coming stages of the investigation.
