Kuala lumpur: An investigating officer revealed in the Sessions Court that Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG) had discussions with the Penang State Government about a significant infrastructure project without the involvement of other bidders.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Headquarters Investigation Division Senior Superintendent Zulhilmi Ramli testified that the private discussions provided BUCG with an advantage in securing the project through direct negotiation. This occurred before the project's implementation method transitioned to an open tender.

Zulhilmi, who is the 38th prosecution witness and also the investigating officer in the corruption case related to the project, stated, 'Based on my investigation, BUCG submitted a lower-priced bid and also had a technical advantage, which enabled it to win the tender for the project.' His testimony came during the cross-examination by lawyer Haijan Omar in the corruption trial of former Penang chief minister Lim Guan Eng. The trial concerns a RM6.3 billion project for major roads and an undersea tunnel.

Zulhilmi also addressed suggestions by the defense that the meetings between BUCG and the Penang Government on May 10, May 19, and July 11, 2011, were not specifically arranged by Lim. While he disagreed with this suggestion, he confirmed that Lim did not attend the meetings, which included only BUCG representatives, state government officers, and ex-officio members.

Lim, 65, faces charges of using his position to obtain RM3.3 million in gratification while serving as Penang chief minister. He allegedly facilitated the appointment of a company owned by former Consortium Zenith Construction Sdn Bhd director Datuk Zarul Ahmad Mohd Zulkifli for the RM6.34 billion project from January 2011 to August 2017.

In a related charge, Lim is accused of soliciting a bribe of 10 percent of the project's profits from Zarul Ahmad as inducement for securing the project. This offense allegedly took place near The Gardens Hotel, Mid Valley City, in March 2011.

Additionally, Lim faces charges of causing the disposal of two plots of Penang Government land, valued at RM208.8 million, to a developer associated with the undersea tunnel project. These offenses were allegedly committed at the Penang State Land and Mines Office on February 17, 2015, and March 22, 2017.

The trial is set to continue before Judge Azura Alwi tomorrow.