SMM denies baseless allegations in viral jet photo
These reports referenced SMM's dealings with a prospective foreign investor.
SMM clarified in a statement today that the first working visit to Indonesia — to the mining conglomerate's headquarters — was initiated in March 2023 by then-CEO Jonith Enggihon as part of due diligence efforts on a potential collaboration. In December 2023, Enggihon formally recommended the partnership to SMM's Board of Directors, citing the Indonesian company's exemplary mining practices.
Following Board approval in February 2024, Sim (then Chief Strategy Officer) was appointed as the lead liaison to facilitate discussions on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). The subsequent working visit in August 2024 — during which the circulated photo was taken — was part of this ongoing FDI engagement.
In December 2024, Sim and Chong proactively cooperated with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) after the issue was first raised by the media. They submitted detailed statements and documentary evidence related to the work trip. Furthermore, an independent internal inquiry, conducted and concluded in February 2025, found no wrongdoing. The inquiry confirmed that there was no conflict of interest, personal gain, or undue influence involved.
SMM said the negative insinuations of misconduct in these media reports are entirely false, misleading, and defamatory.
Categorically denying any wrongdoing occurred, SMM clarified that it is not a licensing authority, and the CEO holds no legal or administrative power to grant or approve licenses, it explained
SMM has reason to believe that the sudden re-emergence of this issue may be politically motivated, especially as it is linked to ongoing legal proceedings initiated by SMM against Enggihon and businessman Albert Tei.
The duo are being sued for, among other matters, fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, tampering with official documents, and conspiracy to injure.
The current wave of public allegations appears to recycle issues already under judicial scrutiny and may be part of a broader campaign to harm the company and its officers.
SMM urges members of the media, politicians, and the public to exercise caution and verify facts before repeating potentially defamatory claims. Should these baseless accusations continue to circulate, SMM will not hesitate to initiate legal action against any party — including media outlets, public figures, or individuals — for defamation and malicious falsehood.
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