PETALING JAYA: A claim by Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) Youth Chief Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman that he was offered RM400,000 scholarship to further his studies in Oxford University has come under question.
A report by the Star Online revealed the university’s annual tuition fees, according to its website, was only £39,992 (RM224,095) for the 2017-2018 intake.
It also quoted an unnamed representative from the university that Syed Saddiq was only granted a partial scholarship.
The representative did not reveal the value but said it was less than the full cost of the course.
In response Syed Saddiq said the cost included living expenses, bringing the amount up to £56,475 (RM316,598).
“In total, I received £70,000, including the scholarship from my faculty,” he said, adding that the amount includes the cost of flight tickets and visa costs.
However, when asked who his sponsors were, he said that “information is with Oxford University”.
On Monday Syed Saddiq said he had decided to defer his Masters in Public Policy at the university and remain active in politics.
Syed Saddiq also claimed he was offered “RM5 million in bribe” and his family received “threats” by certain quarters apparently for his involvement in politics.
Syed Saddiq had said he would consult with his lawyer before lodging a report with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.