KOTA KINABALU, SABAH, MALAYSIA Dec 15, 2025 – In a strongly worded press release, Phoong Jin Zhe, Chairman of the Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sabah, has vehemently denied allegations of misconduct leveled against him by Albert Tei during a recent live program. Phoong expressed deep outrage over what he described as slanderous and baseless accusations, announcing that he has consulted his lawyers and is preparing to file a defamation lawsuit to protect his reputation.
The controversy stems from Tei’s public statements, which Phoong claims distort the facts of their sole interaction and amount to “character assassination through the fabrication of falsehoods.” Phoong categorically rejected any suggestion that he initiated contact with Tei or made remarks implying a love for money, such as “who doesn’t love money.” He emphasized that neither he nor the DAP has ever been involved in Sabah’s mining affairs or agreed to any monopolistic arrangements for scrap metal exports.
Detailing the encounter, Phoong revealed that their only meeting occurred at noon on March 22, 2023, following an unsolicited request from Tei. According to Phoong, Tei insisted on a brief discussion despite no prior appointment, leading Phoong’s political secretary, Chan Loong Wei, to arrange a 15-minute slot as part of routine public engagements. During the meeting, Tei reportedly raised proposals for mining exploration and the creation of a concessionary company to control Sabah’s scrap metal exports. Phoong stated that these ideas were unanimously rejected, with no subsequent follow-up.
“I did not know Albert Tei personally and had never intended to meet him,” Phoong said in the statement. He further confirmed with Chan that the meeting was not pre-arranged and reiterated that Tei himself has acknowledged Phoong never accepted any money from him. “Neither I nor the DAP has ever participated in any process related to Sabah mining matters,” Phoong added.
Addressing broader commentary from Tei, including references to Phoong’s defeat in the Sabah state election, the DAP chairman accepted the voters’ decision humbly. He pledged to reflect on the outcome, return to grassroots efforts, and work diligently to rebuild public trust. “I reiterate my commitment to reflect humbly, return to the grassroots, remain grounded, and work steadily, step by step, to regain the trust of the people,” Phoong concluded.
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