Jews unhappy with TRX’s future as global capital of Islamic banking, says Tajuddin

KUALA LUMPUR (July 25): 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) restructuring efforts had been “sabotaged,” claimed Barisan MP Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman (BN - Pasir Salak) today. 

When debating the motion on the Royal Address in Parliament, he pointed the finger at Pakatan Harapan, reported the Star.

"You all sabotaged 1MDB. I maintain that, because there was a plan to go for public listing to raise funds for a project, which is a strategic project.

"We didn't want the power plants to be controlled by the private sector, because it's a very strategic project," he said.

According to the Star, when R.S.N. Rayer (PH - Jelutong) and Wong Shu Qi (PH - Kluang) demanded he explain his comments, Tajuddin changed the subject. 

Tajuddin spoke about the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX), and how it would be a world-class financial centre and the global capital of Islamic banking.

"I know some people are dissatisfied (dengki). They do not want this.

"The Jews do not like all this - that we were going to become the centre for the rise of Islamic civilisation," he said.

Edge Markets reported late June that Phase 1 of TRX, which comprises The Exchange 106 and Menara Prudential, were slated for occupancy early next year, according to TRX City Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Azmar Taib. 

"We expect full completion in time for the opening of the two buildings,” Azmar said.

Phase 2 of the project which comprises the public plaza, streetscapes and the 10-acre Central Park will be completed by 2020, in line with the opening of the Exchange Mall and the new headquarters for HSBC Malaysia and Affin Bank.

Tajuddin went on to challenge lawmakers in Dewan Rakyat to prove that Umno had received funds from 1MDB. 

"I am sad for them - the Prime Minister wanted to make a new national car, but his Cabinet does not agree. Why didn't you all agree? It's a good project and I support it," he said, reported the Star.

Deputy Speaker Datuk Mohd Rashid Hasnon put a stop to arguments when Pakatan MPs stood to protest.