In a statement, Hajiji said the accusations were ill-intended, politically motivated and aimed at smearing his name.

He said his office would fully cooperate with any investigation into the allegation.

All applications involving the deal had gone through the necessary procedures through the land utilisation committee, he added.

“The application for the Yayasan Sabah land had been referred to the Innoprise Corporation Sdn Bhd board of directors and everything was done according to the law,” said Hajiji.

Social media was abuzz over allegations that Hajiji abused his power as chief minister by approving six land applications involving 968.4ha in Kudat, together with a Sarawakian businessman, alleged to be his accomplice.

Hajiji said the authorities had been alerted about the social media account which posted the allegation on Facebook.

“I will consult my lawyers to initiate legal action over this false allegation,” he added.

The chief minister said investigations would be carried out and appropriate action would also be taken against the officers who released confidential documents that were used to make the allegation.