Zeti’s husband denies bribery allegation by ex-Goldman banker Leissner

Tawfiq Ayman, the husband of former Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) governor Zeti Akhtar Aziz, today denied the bribery allegation made against him by former Goldman Sachs banker Tim Leissner in the ongoing trial linked to 1MDB in New York.

In a statement, Tawfiq expressed shock over Leissner’s allegation.

“I do not know Leissner or Roger Ng Chong Hwa and neither have I met, nor have I ever communicated with either of them. I wish to categorically state that throughout my entire life I have never received any bribes from anyone.

“In view of the ongoing proceedings in New York, I have been advised not to make any further comments as it may amount to sub judice. We will be seeking legal advice on the next course of action to be taken on the statements made against me,” he said.

The statement, issued by his lawyers from Messrs Jagjit Ariff & Co, was confirmed by the law firm’s partner Wan Muhd Ariff Ameer.

Ng was extradited to New York in May 2019 to face charges by the US Department of Justice over the 1MDB scandal.

Yesterday, it was reported that Leissner’s testimony had mentioned bribery involving the husband of a former BNM governor.