Rubin, a Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah vice-president, believes that there was no wrongdoing on his part during the meeting with the individual, who secretly recorded the video, which has now gone viral, Sinar Harian reported.

“I do not think there was any element of corruption in that meeting. It is unlikely that I will need to be investigated.

“However, if the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission summons me, I will cooperate fully,” he was quoted as saying.

Separately, Kemabong Gagasan Rakyat Youth information chief Rexy Yankat came to Rubin’s defence, saying the video did not implicate him in any corrupt activity.

He said the video merely involved a business discussion that was not finalised. He also claimed the other individuals were from a so-called “mineral cartel” who posed as investors to discuss business opportunities.

“Fortunately, the assemblyman quickly realised the meeting was a waste of time and potentially carried a harmful agenda,” Rexy said in a statement.

The video is linked to the alleged case of Sabah assemblymen discussing bribes for a project licence. An individual claiming to be a whistleblower reportedly claimed eight assemblymen were involved, as well as the “top leader” of the state.

The individual’s lawyer had also met with MACC officials seeking an agreement that his client would not be investigated before providing evidence to the agency.

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

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had also said the whistleblower would not be protected if he was involved in the alleged corruption.

Sabah chief minister Hajiji Noor has since said the state government will assist MACC’s investigation into the allegation, and that he has nothing to hide.