Golf at Pebble Beach or kenduri in NS?

KUALA LUMPUR — The allegations that the political secretary of the Home Minister went on a golfing trip to the famous Pebble Beach course in California have taken a new twist as some quarters have raised suspicions that the claims may be politically motivated and linked to a certain political party.

It has also sparked concerns that these allegations against Muhammad Zakwan Mustafa Kamal could be exploited as ammunition in the upcoming Pelangai by-election in Pahang.

Observers have pointed out that the timing of these accusations, which coincided with the attendance of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and members of his cabinet, including Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in the United States, may not be coincidental.

Responding to the allegations that have been making its rounds in social media, Zakwan said he intended to file a lawsuit in response to viral allegations.

He will also be lodging a police report against the individuals responsible for spreading these claims.

"I was attending a kenduri in Negeri Sembilan when I unexpectedly found out that someone was spreading news that I was golfing at Pebble Beach, USA," said the PKR deputy secretary general in a Facebook post.

"I will lodge a police report and look for a  lawyer. Hopefully, justice will prevail, God willing," he added.

It is also said that the photos were supposedly taken several months ago at a golf course in Bali.

Earlier, a Facebook user had alleged that Zakwan was playing golf at Pebble Beach, an iconic golf championship venue, while the UNGA was taking place in the US.

The individual had also uploaded five photos purportedly showing Zakwan golfing, along with screenshots of his location and information about Pebble Beach.

Malaysia has often seen similar allegations being weaponised to gain a strategic advantage in elections and the upcoming Pelangai by-election is no exception.

As the by-election draws near, both sides of the political spectrum are expected to intensify their efforts to secure victory, making it urgent to address and clarify any false claims to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process. — The Vibes, September 24, 2023