This comes after Malaysiakini on Saturday reported a source as naming six elected representatives purportedly involved in the scandal, including top leaders of PBS and Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR), both part of the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah administration.

In a Facebook post, Joachim described the report as “grossly irresponsible and ill-intentioned”, saying it was aimed at tarnishing his reputation.

“I firmly deny the allegations implicating me in the purported bribery scandal involving Sabah mineral mining licences as reported in the Malaysiakini news portal,” he said.

He added that he would not be distracted by attempts to discredit him but would remain committed to carrying out his responsibilities as Kundasang assemblyman and state minister.

Joachim also urged PBS members and supporters to remain calm, united, and focused, saying he would face the situation with a clear conscience.

“Let us continue to work hard for the people. There is still much to do. We need to continue listening, finding what can be improved, and doing our best to bring development to our beloved state,” he said.

In the Malaysiakini report, the source claimed that Joachim had received a bribe of RM600,000.

The news portal later reported him as saying: “Let the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission do its job.”

On Monday, PBS deputy president Jahid Jahim also denied allegations based on the same report that he had accepted a RM150,000 bribe in the mining scandal.

Meanwhile, STAR president Jeffrey Kitingan on Sunday denied allegations in the report that he had received RM1.78 million in connection with the scandal, saying these were unfounded and a political move aimed at tarnishing the state government.