Selangor Menteri Besar Azmin Ali has described the latest allegations of corrupt practices with “requests for women during negotiations” as a systematic smear campaign against the state government.

He said the allegations appearing on social media and news portals are vicious and scurrilous, and not supported by any evidence.

Azmin, who is also Bukit Antarabangsa assemblyperson, further called it an act of betrayal.

"In conducting such a vicious and reckless attack, the perpetrators have sullied the good name, reputation and integrity of our state civil service, as well as the executive councillors who have contributed so tirelessly and efficiently to bring development and socio-economic progress to the state,” he said in a statement.

“Let us be clear. We welcome efforts by whistleblowers who want to help ensure a clean and corrupt-free government. But if there is even a shred of evidence to support these allegations, it is incumbent on those making them to produce it to the relevant authorities for necessary action.”

Yesterday it was reported that allegations had surfaced from a leaked WhatsApp conversation where PKR vice-president and Pandan MP Rafizi Ramli (photo) claimed he had received complaints of "money and women are requested during negotiations" when dealing with the state.

"I refuse to comment or deny the matter (if the leaked conversation is authentic)," the Pandan lawmaker had told Malaysiakini when quizzed on the matter.

Azmin said taking pot-shots at the government without evidence and then spreading them to all and sundry is an act of sheer cowardice, irresponsible and a malicious mischief.

“While it is our declared policy to have a fully accountable and transparent government with a zero tolerance for corruption, we are at the same time duty bound to protect the good name and reputation of our civil servants and executives from irresponsible and wild accusations,” the menteri besar said.

Meanwhile, DAP's Bukit Gasing assemblyperson Rajiv Rishyakaran challenged Rafizi to lodge a report with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) if there are any evidence.

“As much as it will be a setback to the party in the short run, we cannot cover up corruption,” he said in his Facebook posting.