Johor Menteri Besar Khaled Nordin has pledged the state government's full cooperation with regard to a corruption probe involving the conversion of Bumiputera property titles, which has led to the arrest of state exco member Abd Latif Bandi.

In a statement, he said the state government would not interfere in the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's (MACC) investigation. 

"The state government is of the stand that it is important and critical that the enforcement of laws proceed unhindered and in an independent manner. 

"The state government is committed to ensuring that the administration and development of the state is free of embezzlement and corruption," he added. 

Khaled also urged all members of the administration, staff and the public to cooperate and not view this matter from an emotional standpoint.

“On the contrary, let us focus on our tasks and give our best to ensure that the state government's administration is not disrupted,” he said.

At the same time, Khaled said the state government hoped that truth and justice would prevail in this issue.

Echoing this was Kempas state assemblyperson Tengku Putra Haron Aminurrashid.

"Whatever needed to be said has been said and written. Now we leave the rest to the MACC to process and the courts to decide.

"They are the authorities of power in this matter and no one else," he said.

This morning, Abd Latif was remanded for seven days to facilitate investigations following his arrest in Johor Baru yesterday.

MACC also raided the 51-year-old Endau state assemblyperson's house and seized RM42,000 in cash, a Toyota Vellfire and 150 branded handbags.

The case is being investigated under Section 17 of the MACC Act and Section 4 of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.

Previously, MACC arrested six individuals over the alleged conversion of bumiputera land titles in exchange for kickbacks.

Among others, MACC arrested Abd Latif's son and the exco member's special officer.

MACC also seized 26 luxury vehicles and froze 45 bank accounts in connection with the case.

Abd Latif went on indefinite leave last Wednesday.