HULU SELANGOR: Khairul Azhari Saut, the Perikatan Nasional (PN) candidate for the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election, has refuted allegations of involvement with loan sharks, labeling them as malicious slander.
Despite this, he acknowledged having business debts like anyone else, clarifying that they were not owed to loan sharks.
"To me, these allegations are nothing but malicious slander, similar to what occurred last week when journalists questioned my academic qualifications.
"It's not that I'm unwilling to comment on my academic background, but it wasn't the right time and I am being truthful."
"Regarding this new issue (of his alleged involvement with loan sharks), I have my own business and it's common for business owners to have debts.
"I have debts for my house and car, and I'm not denying that. However, it's crucial to clarify that these debts are not owed to loan sharks.
"If you owe money to loan sharks, they seize your bank card, hindering your financial freedom; or resort to intimidating tactics like painting your house with red paint.
"Fortunately, I haven't encountered such situations," he told reporters after the launch of Wanita Gempur PN in Batang Kali.
Also present were PN deputy chairman Datuk Seri Faizal Azumu and Women's chief Datuk Seri Rina Harun.
Khairul said allegations by irresponsible parties have adverse effects on the country's electoral system.
"Personally, personal attacks, regardless of their origin, are detrimental to the integrity of our electoral process."
Recently, social media users have raised questions about Khairul's alleged debt of RM37,363 with a community credit company amidst his candidacy for the Kuala Kubu Baharu assemblyman position.
The Election Commission (EC) fixed May 11 for the by-election following the passing of Lee Kee Hiong on March 21.
Contesting for the state seat are Khairul, Pakatan Harapan's Pang Sock Tao, Hafizah Zainudin of Parti Rakyat Malaysia (PRM), and Nyau Ke Xin, who is running as an independent.