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Rafizi links son’s attack to financial scandal, calls it attempt to silence him

Former economy minister believes the assault was an attempt to muzzle him after he met whistleblowers last week

12:51 PM MYT

 

KUALA LUMPUR – Former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli has revealed that a threatening message was sent to his wife following the assault on their 12-year-old son yesterday.

The message, received at around 1am today, warned of an AIDS infection if the family continued with their actions.

The Pandan MP believes the assault, which took place at a shopping mall in Putrajaya, is connected to his ongoing investigation into a financial scandal.

Rafizi revealed that after the attack, a threatening message was sent to his wife, warning that their family would face consequences if they continued their actions.

“The message said ‘keep quiet, if you continue, AIDS,’ followed by a syringe emoji,” he said during a press conference in Parliament today.

The incident unfolded when two men on a motorcycle followed the car carrying Rafizi’s wife and son.

As they were entering the vehicle, one of the men allegedly dragged the child and injected him with a syringe.

Rafizi believes the attack was a warning related to a scandal he has been investigating, information he received from whistleblowers the previous week.

“I’ve been looking into something, and this attack feels like a message to stop me from pursuing it further,” Rafizi added.

“I suspect that those involved know that when I start digging, I go deep. They want me to ‘move on’ and not investigate this matter further.”

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim swiftly responded to the incident, offering his full support for a transparent and thorough investigation.

“I am deeply saddened by this extreme act of violence, which reflects a worrying culture that must end,” Anwar said in the Dewan Rakyat today.

“I assure you that the Home Minister and the Inspector General of Police will act swiftly, transparently, and decisively. Not only will action be taken, but we will also work to put an end to this malicious culture.”

Anwar’s remarks came as he addressed the growing concern over political violence in the country.

The Prime Minister condemned the assault, describing it as an alarming escalation from bullying in schools to more serious, targeted violence. – August 14, 2025

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