Ex-Petronas COO pleads not guilty to graft charge over home renovations

Adi Azuan Abdul Ghani entered the plea in court on Tuesday, denying allegations that he received valuable consideration in the form of renovation costs for three residential properties. The charges relate to gifts allegedly provided by a company director, according to court documents.

The former Petronas executive is accused of accepting the substantial renovations as improper gratification, which constitutes an offense under Malaysia's anti-corruption laws. The case marks a significant development in ongoing investigations into corporate governance and potential graft within the country's major institutions.

Adi Azuan's legal team is expected to mount a defense challenging the prosecution's evidence. The case is one of several high-profile corruption matters being pursued by authorities as part of broader efforts to strengthen accountability in corporate Malaysia.

The court has scheduled further proceedings to determine trial dates and hear submissions from both the prosecution and defense teams. The outcome of the case could have implications for corporate governance standards in the country's energy sector and beyond.