Former CEO of MCT and One City deny involvement in temple incident – Nation

Tong Seech Wi, former CEO of MCT Bhd, has denied any involvement in the record of the relocation of Seafield Sri Maha Mariamman's temple, after a photo of him and another former high-level leader have been broadcast on social media.

The photo was accompanied by charges that he allegedly hired thugs to force the move of the USJ Temple, Subang Jaya.

The developer at the center of the saga, One City Development Sdn Bhd, is 100% owned by MCT Bhd, a company listed on Bursa Malaysia.

"It was brought to my attention that my photo was being shown on social media, linking me to the country where Seafield Sri Maha Mariamman Temple is located," Tong said in a statement.

"I categorically deny any involvement in the recent events that have occurred."

He was referring to the temple attacked by thugs early Monday morning (November 26), followed by fighting.

"I left MCT Bhd in February 2018 when I sold the majority of my shares in the company. I have not been a director since I resigned on February 28, 2018, "said Tong.

"Therefore, I have no further relationship with the management or operations of MCT Bhd or its subsidiary One City Development Sdn Bhd."

The conglomerate Ayala Corporation, based in the Philippines, became a shareholder of MCT in April 2015 with a participation of 9.16%. Six months later, he increased his stake in MCT to 32.95%.

Ayala further increased its stake at the beginning of this year and now controls 66.25% of the company.

Tong urged all parties to remain calm and resolve the problem amicably, adding that he was personally discouraged by the incidents.

At the same time, One City Development Sdn Bhd again denied being involved in the instigation of the riots.

Bernama had quoted Inspector General of Police, Tan Sri Noor, Rashid Ibrahim, saying that a preliminary investigation had concluded that the incident was likely due to the acquisition of land in the area which would have been made "in an unpleasant way". between the owner and Sri Maha Mariamman temple.

"Maybe the party wanting to take control of the land hired a group of Malaysian men to facilitate the acquisition.

"It is possible that they are gangsters and, of course, the Indian group tried to control the intrusion.

"There is no problem of racial conflict," he said.

One city issued a statement in which it wanted to "seek clarification" on these remarks and emphasized that "we have always respected the rule of law".

The company said that this is seen both in lengthy trials and in discussions with relevant stakeholders.

One City Development said it has also compensated the temple with a new site and 1.5 million RM, and be willing to allow time for the rituals related to the relocation.

To date, 19 people have been remanded to assist in the investigation of the first riots, including at least three employees of One City.