Robert Tawik also denies involvement in mining scandal

Borneo Post

9 hours ago

Robert Tawik
KOTA KINABALU (July 1): Bingkor assemblyman Datuk Robert Tawik has denied allegations linking him to applications for mineral exploration licenses or receiving any funds related to such activities.
The Assistant Minister of State Public Works described the accusations as politically motivated slander ahead of the approaching State Election.
He stated that he has never been involved in any mining license applications or received any form of funding related to such activities.
'These allegations are baseless and malicious. They are desperate attempts to tarnish my image and damage the reputation of the state government,' he said in a statement on Tuesday.
Robert affirmed his full cooperation with the authorities if required.
'As a leader, I remain committed and focused on fulfilling my responsibilities to the people. I will not be swayed or distracted by these unethical political attacks,' he emphasized.
He also urged all parties to refrain from using slander as a political tool and instead engage in mature and responsible politics for the greater good of Sabah.
STAR Sabah president and Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan as well as Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) deputy president Datuk Sri Panglima Jahid Jahim have also denied allegations linking them to the bribery scandal.
The allegations were published by Malaysiakini in an article dated June 28, 2025, titled 'Lagi Kejutan Sabah: Skandal pelombongan selubungi STAR, pemimpin tertinggi PBS'.
Besides Jeffrey, Jahid and Robert, the news portal claimed that three other leaders were also involved in the scandal.
Meanwhile, Robert has stressed the need for responsible discourse and unity in addressing Sabah's development challenges.
Responding to recent statement by Sabah Umno vice youth chief Bobby Balang, he said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Haji Panglima Hajiji Haji Noor's call for the public to exercise wisdom when navigating unverified claims on social media was a timely reminder in the digital age.
'The Chief Minister never questioned the intelligence of Sabahans. On the contrary, he urged for discernment – especially when misinformation can spread rapidly online and damage reputations without evidence,' her said.
Robert said the government welcomes public scrutiny and is committed to transparency and good governance.
'Let's be clear – there is no room in this administration for corruption to be swept under the carpet. GRS remains steadfast in strengthening institutional integrity and taking action when wrongdoing is proven,' he said.
He acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in infrastructure and utility services, but said the current state leadership has taken proactive steps to address long-standing issues that were inherited from previous administrations.
'Development is not a cover for corruption. It is our mission. Real progress requires both infrastructure improvements and public trust – and that is what we are working hard to earn,' he added.
Robert urged for constructive engagement from all political players, particularly those in the unity government at the federal level.
'It's easy to criticise from the sidelines, but Sabahans deserve solutions, not just soundbites. We call on all parties to work together for the people's benefit – that is true leadership.'