Labelling the sum a “big amount”, the finance minister, however, admitted that they had wanted more for the luxurious yacht.

“But if this is the best price we can get based on an open tender, I think we have to accept this is the best price we are going to get,” he told reporters at the Dewan Rakyat lobby.

Lim, however, was supportive of the sale as the government had paid over RM14.2 million to maintain the “Equanimity” – currently anchored in Langkawi – from last August to March this year.

Earlier today, it was reported that Malaysia would sell the superyacht to Genting Malaysia Bhd in the first major asset sale by Putrajaya to recover billions lost from the fund.

The superyacht is among assets allegedly bought by fugitive financier Low Taek Jho, better known as Jho Low, and his associates with money taken from the state investment arm, US and Malaysian investigators have said.

Jho Low allegedly paid US$250 million for the 91m yacht, which has an interior clad in marble and gold leaf, a spa and sauna, a 20m swimming pool, a movie theatre and helipad.

Putrajaya put up the luxury yacht for sale in October, setting a minimum price tag of US$130 million, but had struggled to find a buyer at that price.

Attorney-General Tommy Thomas said the government negotiated directly with Genting Malaysia and, as a result, would save US$4.4 million in agent’s commission.