ON Nov 6, Viva Rail Lines (VIRAL) Bhd made a press announcement on the Melaka-to-KLIA electric train project.
An article was published in the New Straits Times on Nov 7, titled “Viral gets RM12b financing”, and another on Nov 21, titled “Miscommunication between HSBC group and VIRAL”.
The second report stated: “In a correspondence with the NST Business, HSBC Group said neither its Kuala Lumpur nor its London offices had any dealings with VIRAL or any of its associates, partners, fund managers and the sorts, which include Satu Teguh and Saeculum Asset Management.”
The report quoted HSBC Group as saying: “Further to our discussion, we would like to confirm that HSBC Group has no involvement with any other companies mentioned in the press release issued by VIRAL.”
VIRAL’s management would like to thank the NST for reporting the matter.
However, the issue with the bank is a private and confidential matter and as such is not for public consumption. Financial matters are very sensitive when things are subject to a number of confirmations.
However, we wish to reassure the public that the project is being pursued expeditiously, and the financing for the project is secured from reputable financial sources and partners. The project will continue as submitted to the government as a private funding initiative.
We also assure the public and the government that the electric train project is proposed with the interest of the public and the national economy at heart.
Further announcements on the development of the electric train project under VIRAL will be made in due course.
AHMAD ZAKIR NIZAM
On behalf of the board of directors, Viva Rail Lines (VIRAL) Bhd, Kuala Lumpur