Equanimity, the controversial luxury yacht that cost more than RM 1billion, is set to be handed over to Malaysia very soon. The yacht, which is linked to the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal was impounded early of the year in Bali. This was part of the request made by the United States authorities in line with the investigation launched by the Department of Justice.
Source: Beam.land
Source: Charter World
However, the Indonesian court has declared that the yacht should be returned to its rightful owners in April and it was wrongfully impounded. In another twist to the story, in July, the Indonesian policed seized it again after the United States made a formal request for legal assistance.
According to Daniel Silitonga, the deputy for economic and special crimes, as quoted by Reuters, “The yacht will be handed over at the border between Indonesia and Malaysia’s waters.”
He added,
“We have to maintain the good relations between the two countries.”
Reuters has also reported that the decision to return the yacht was made allegedly because of a personal request by our current Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. However, the prime minister’s office did not provide any comments on the matter.
Source: Luxuo
Source: FMT
The luxury vessel is rumoured to have a 20-meter swimming pool, a movie theatre, a helipad, a spa and sauna as well as an interior decorated with marble and gold leaf.
Malaysiakini reported that Indonesian authorities may return the yacht as early as next week and they are will not have any further dealings with the vessel once it has been handed over. The superyacht, which was impounded at Bali’s Benoa Bay is reportedly in the waters near Singapore and the Indonesian island of Batam currently.
Source: TODAYonline
Jho Low has allegedly used the proceeds from 1MDB funds to buy the yacht which is 90 metres in length. His whereabouts remain unknown but Malaysian authorities are still searching for him so that he can be brought home to face the music.
Do you have any suggestions on what should Malaysia do with the luxury yacht as soon as it comes back to its rightful owners, the rakyat? Share with us your thoughts.
Also read: Police Suspect That Jho Low Could Have Undergone Plastic Surgery to Evade Capture
