Founder and Chairman of Malik Group of Companies, Abdul Malik Dasthigeer, aka “Dato Malik” surfaced last year when the MACC (Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission) took him into custody. While he managed to clear his name then, he was recently dragged into another mess.
On 11th March, a news report regarding the arrest of suspected ‘drug lord’ Indian film producer Jaffer Sadiq implicated a Malaysian in the case. Reportedly, Dato Malik was believed to have been the Malaysian involved with said ‘drug lord’. But, he has since denied the claims, even lodging a report against those “spreading fake news”.
Earlier, an online new portal reported that Jaffer Sadiq had been arrested by the Indian Narcotics Control Bureau for his alleged involvement in an international drug cartel. The exposé then claimed the drug lord’s boss was a Malaysian film distributor who was said to have close ties with Tamil film industry celebrities.
Although no names were mentioned, it was strongly believed they were referring to Dato Malik. Still, the media mogul and philanthropist was not amused to be the target of another allegation set to ruin his name. “I am a businessman in Malaysia and there are certain parties who want to tarnish my reputation in the business world, especially in the film industry,” he later commented.
In addition to denying having any contact with Jaffar Sadiq, Dato Malik also informed the public that he had lodged a police report regarding the slander at the Dang Wangi District Police Headquarters and sent a copy to the Indian High Commission for further action. “Appropriate action will be taken by my lawyers against irresponsible parties who wants to damage my reputation in Malaysia and India,” he warned.
Dang Wangi District Police chief ACP Noor Dellhan Yahaya has since confirmed receiving a report from the businessman while Bukit Aman Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (JSJN) director Datuk Khaw Kok Chin has also denied the involvement of any Malaysian citizens in an international drug smuggling syndicate.
Netizens have been voicing support for Dato Malik, with some claiming they know better than to believe the rumours. We too hope the truth will set the venerated businessman Dato Abdul Malik free.
Sources: Instagram, Sin Chew Daily, New Straits Times
