Berjaya Says No Plans For Casino Urges Removal Of Misleading Content

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Berjaya Corporation Berhad (Berjaya) has denied that opening a casino is part of the Forest City mega project, despite previously being quoted in a report by an international news agency Bloomberg, two days ago.
In a statement today, Berjaya urged Bloomberg and The Edge Singapore, which had picked up the story, to remove any “inaccurate information” that misrepresented the company’s purported meeting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim about reviving the multibillion ringgit mega project.
“We would like to make it clear that Vincent Tan (Berjaya Group chairperson) has not participated in any such discussions and refute the inaccurate claims presented in the articles,” it said.
Berjaya also said it is seeking clarification from both media organisations, apart from the removal and cessation of further dissemination.
“We trust that the responsible parties will understand our concerns and take appropriate action.”
Two days ago, sources told Bloomberg that Anwar had met two prominent tycoons - Tan and Genting’s Lim Kok Thay - with Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar also “represented” in the purported meeting.
Prime Minister Anwar IbrahimHowever, the report mentioned that the plan is still in the “preliminary” stage and was not clear on the government’s stance on building another casino after Genting Highlands.
Yesterday, Anwar denied the government had any plans to open a casino and described the report as a blatant “lie”.
Genting has held Malaysia’s sole casino licence since 1969 and operates the country’s only casino in Genting Highlands.
‘Take necessary action’
Meanwhile, Bernama reported Anwar as saying earlier today that all parties mentioned in the report should consider taking necessary action against the news agencies.
“Those who are mentioned (in the report), must take the necessary action,” he told reporters after performing Friday prayers at Malaysia Airlines (MAB) Islamic Centre today.
Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz GhaziConcurring with the prime minister, Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the report was an attempt to tarnish Forest City's image and Johor in general.
The Machap assemblyperson also said the state government was not informed of the purported meeting and stressed that Johor has long banned any casino activities in the region.
"With this, the state government wishes this issue will not be prolonged and abused to the point of affecting the harmony and the good name of the state and country - as well as the harmony of our multiracial society," he said, adding his administration was committed to improving the economy through the revival of Forest City in the region, with Putrajaya’s help. - Mkini

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