BAGAN DATOH, Dec 31 (Bernama) — Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has once again ‘invited’ Petaling Jaya Utara member of parliament Tony Pua to meet him and present evidence on his allegations related to the government’s purchase of Littoral Combat Ships (LCS).

“Don’t just speak behind our backs, come see me and present the evidence for discussions,” he said.

“If it’s with good intentions, welcome, but if it’s to seek trouble, I’ll not entertain,’ said Ahmad Zahid after presenting the Penilaian Menengah Rendah excellent awards in Bagan Datoh.

He was commenting on the opposition’s latest claims that the price for the Second Generation Patrol Vessels – LCS had gone up by billions of ringgit as soon as the tender to build the six vessels were awarded to Boustead Naval Shipyard.

“When I invite to meet anytime, present the facts on defence issues, don’t make statements in the media and make all kinds of accusations,” he added.

Ahmad Zahid said he had previously invited Pua to board the vessel at the 11th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace exhibition but Pua had declined to do so.

— BERNAMA