On the first count, Balakrishnan, as a representative of Sinniyah & Sons Sdn Bhd, was alleged to be involved in money laundering activities by making withdrawal transactions of RM6.012 million, believed to be proceeds from illegal activities, from the company’s bank account at Bank Affin Bhd.

The second charge, involving the same offence for the same amount, was made against him in his capacity as a director of Sinniyah & Sons Sdn Bhd.

Both the offences were allegedly committed at Bank Affin Bhd, Jalan Kebun Teh here between June 12, 2012 and Sept 5, 2013.

The charges were made under Section 4 (1) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001, read with Section 87 (1) of the same law.

Balakrishnan, who was MIC vice-president from 2013 until 2015, faces a fine of not more than RM5 million or imprisonment for up to five years, if found guilty.

Deputy public prosecutor from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Khazrin Hafiz Khalil prosecuted, while lawyers V Manukaran and N Yuhendra represented Balakrishnan.

Judge Jailani Rahman allowed the prosecution’s request for the case to be transferred for hearing at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court, where Balakrishnan has another case set for trial on Sept 3.

The case involves false claims of nearly RM13 million allegedly made by Balakrishnan in connection with the Sungai Melaka beautification and restoration project in 2013.