Hajiji said the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah-led state government will assist in the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s investigation, Harian Metro reported.

“We ask the authorities to investigate this case. We will offer our cooperation, but (MACC should) also investigate those who gave the bribes.

“Those who offer bribes have malicious intentions to obtain something from the government. When they fail to obtain it, then these kinds of things surface.

“I have nothing (to hide). The Sabah government is in a good state and is running well. The (audio clip) is just an accusation. We have nothing to hide,” he said, referring to audio clips related to the case.

Senior MACC officers have met a lawyer over the alleged case, who played a 17-second audio clip for the officers in which several people were heard having a conversation about money.

MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki said the lawyer indicated that his client was ready to provide them with evidence, but wanted an agreement that the client would not come under investigation.

Azam said this was rejected as MACC could not provide a written guarantee of immunity without detailed information about the alleged improper conduct.

The witness was urged to file an official complaint so that he could be granted protection under the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010.

The individual later sent Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim a letter asking for a guarantee of his protection before filing an MACC report. According to Malaysiakini, he claimed eight assemblymen were involved, as well as the “top leader” of the state.

Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh urged MACC to offer the man whistleblower protection, pointing out that it could be revoked under several circumstances, including if the witness took part in the alleged misconduct.