1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) has said that it was never approached by Swiss authorities, in view of reports claiming that the Swiss attorney-general is investigating issues linked to the company.

However, the company said that they are ready to assist the Swiss authorities if approached, subject to advice from the appropriate Malaysian authorities.

"We remain committed to fully cooperate with all lawful authorities that are currently investigating 1MDB," said the company.

According to Reuters yesterday, the Swiss attorney-general has opened criminal proceedings on Aug 14 against two entities of 1MDB as well as against an unknown person.

It is understood that the investigations were initiated after the Swiss attorney-general received communications from the Money Laundering Reporting Office of Switzerland.

Reuters also reported that the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (Finma) was investigating whether some of the country's banks had any business with 1MDB .

According Swiss-based Bruno Manser Fund (BMF), investigations by Swiss authorities could be linked to 1MDB's business ventures with PetroSaudi International Ltd.

BMF claimed that investigations were conducted under money laundering, public misconduct and bribery laws.

On Thursday, former Batu Kawan Umno division vice-head Khairuddin Abu Hassan claimed that he had submitted evidence of 1MDB's links with Swiss banks to the Swiss attorney-general.