Pahang Palace Strips Nicky Liow's 'Datuk Seri' Title
The decision comes after the fugitive was charged in court and wanted by Interpol.
By Yap Wan Xiang — 27 Apr 2021, 12:46 PM
Fugitive businessman Nicky Liow Soon Hee, who has been charged in court for being a member of an organised crime group, is no longer a Datuk Seri holder
According to New Straits Times, the Pahang palace has stripped Liow's Darjah Sri Sultan Ahmad Shah Pahang (SSAP) title, an honourary that comes with a Datuk Seri title.
State Secretary Datuk Seri Dr Sallehuddin Ishak said the palace has also revoked Liow's brother's Darjah Indera Mahkota Pahang (DIMP). Liow's younger brother, Wei Loon, previously held a Datuk title.
"The order to immediately revoke the awards was given by the Sultan of Pahang (Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah) and the letters of withdrawal came into effect on 21 April," Dr Sallehuddin said in a statement.
"The nominees are not allowed to use any title previously bestowed and must return the awards to the state secretary's office in accordance with laws regarding state awards, titles, and honours."
According to the Ceremonial and International Conference Secretariat Division's official website — an online database of all honourary holders in Malaysia — Liow and his brother received the titles in 2015
On 9 April, the three siblings were charged under Section 130v of the Penal Code for being members of an organised crime group
The offence carries a jail term of up to 12 years. Liow was charged in absentia as he is currently on the run.
New Straits Times reported that the police had on 20 April obtained an Interpol Red Notice to locate and arrest Liow.
The 33-year-old was last sighted in Setiawalk, Puchong, on 20 March, according to The Star.
His Chinese national assistant Niu Zhe — who is also believed to be his wife — is wanted by Interpol as well.
14 members of the Nicky Gang were charged in the Petaling Jaya Sessions Court on 9 April.
Image via Ahmad Zamzahuri/Malay Mail