The Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry has postponed to next week to begin its investigations into claims of astronaut Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor having accumulated RM1.2 million in fees for public appearances and talks to enable it to gather the necessary information.

Its minister, Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili, said the decision to postpone the investigations was made to provide time for the public to submit information on the allegation to the ministry.

He said that until today, the ministry had yet to receive any information or an official report on the allegation.

“We are still waiting for an official complaint (to begin the investigation). We do receive such complaints, which are spread through the short messaging service and rumours, but to accuse Dr Sheikh Muszaphar of having received more than RM1 million, that I think is baseless.
“Hence the need for those with information to come to us. As far as we know, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar abides by all the procedures imposed by the ministry,” he added.

Maximus said the time for the public to submit their complaints on the matter had been extended until Dec 1.

“We will wait until next week for the public to submit their complaints and will discuss the matter with Dr Sheikh Muszaphar,” he said in response to a statement by his deputy, Fadillah Yusof, who said investigations made against Dr Sheikh Muszaphar would be conducted by a special committee, which would begin its task tomorrow.

source: NST

UPDATE: Jan 19 2009 - Ministry found Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Not Guilty