Sabah PKR chief Mustapha Sakmud said mining licensing has long been a matter of concern for Sabahans, who hope that the state’s natural resources are managed fairly and used to benefit all.

In a statement, Mustapha said transparency, integrity and accountability must be the foundation of every decision involving the state’s resources.

“Sabah PKR believes that these (charges) will send an important message that the culture of abuse of power will no longer be tolerated.

“It is time for Sabah to strengthen its standards of governance with greater credibility and integrity,” he said.

Yesterday, Azam said he would make an announcement soon about the “one or two individuals” to be charged in court in connection with the alleged mining scandal.

On June 6, a source from MACC said the investigation papers had been completed and submitted to the Attorney-General’s Chambers two weeks earlier and that several individuals could be charged.