Aumas – Sabah Media https://sabahmedia.com The Voice of Sabah Wed, 20 May 2026 13:56:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.2 https://sabahmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cropped-s_icon-32x32.png Aumas – Sabah Media https://sabahmedia.com 32 32 189073890 AuMAS sumbang RM50,000 baik pulih ruang solat Masjid Al Firdaus Balung https://sabahmedia.com/2026/05/15/aumas-sumbang-rm50000-baik-pulih-ruang-solat-masjid-al-firdaus-balung/ https://sabahmedia.com/2026/05/15/aumas-sumbang-rm50000-baik-pulih-ruang-solat-masjid-al-firdaus-balung/#respond Fri, 15 May 2026 06:21:59 +0000 https://sabahmedia.com/?p=96711
Read Time:1 Minute, 58 Second

Oleh Normimie Diun

TAWAU: AuMAS Resources Berhad menyalurkan sumbangan berjumlah RM50,000 bagi kerja-kerja pembaikan bangunan tambahan ruang solat di Masjid Al Firdaus, Kampung Balung Cocos, di sini, yang mengalami kerosakan akibat ribut pada Oktober lalu.

Majlis penyerahan sumbangan itu diadakan di masjid berkenaan pada Jumaat sebagai sebahagian daripada program tanggungjawab sosial korporat (CSR) syarikat.

Chong Tzu Khen

Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif AuMAS, Chong Tzu Khen berkata, program CSR berkenaan merupakan komitmen syarikat untuk terus menyumbang kepada masyarakat setempat, khususnya di kawasan sekitar operasi perlombongan syarikat.

Beliau berkata, pihaknya bukan sahaja mahu membantu komuniti, malah memperkukuhkan hubungan dengan penduduk dan pekerja di kawasan terlibat.

“Program ini memberi fokus kepada kebajikan masyarakat dan tanggungjawab sosial syarikat, selain menyokong aktiviti yang memberi manfaat secara langsung kepada penduduk setempat.

“Kami sebelum ini turut melaksanakan beberapa program CSR lain dan akan terus mempertimbangkan bantuan berdasarkan keperluan serta kawasan operasi projek syarikat,” katanya ketika ditemui media selepas majlis berkenaan.

Menurutnya, Kampung Balung dipilih kerana terletak berhampiran kawasan operasi lombong emas syarikat, selain komuniti di kawasan itu masih memerlukan bantuan.

Katanya, AuMAS juga merancang melaksanakan program CSR di Kampung Ranggu serta kawasan lain yang berkaitan dengan projek eksplorasi syarikat.

Penyerahan cek oleh AuMAS kepada wakil AJK Masjid Al Firdaus.

Sementara itu, Pengerusi Masjid Al Firdaus, Azeman Rasley, berkata pihak masjid amat bersyukur apabila permohonan bantuan yang dikemukakan kepada syarikat itu diluluskan dalam tempoh singkat.

Azeman

Beliau berkata, sumbangan itu akan digunakan untuk membaik pulih awning masjid yang rosak selepas dihempap pokok akibat angin kencang lebih setahun lalu.

“Setiap kali ada majlis atau sambutan hari raya, kami terpaksa menyewa kanopi kerana awning masjid rosak.

“Alhamdulillah, bantuan daripada AuMAS ini dapat menyelesaikan masalah yang kami hadapi dan membolehkan kerja pembaikan dilakukan secepat mungkin,” katanya.

Azeman berkata, masjid yang berusia lebih 20 tahun itu memerlukan banyak kerja pembaikan kerana keadaan bangunan yang semakin uzur.

Menurutnya, setakat ini pihak masjid belum menerima sumbangan besar daripada mana-mana pihak lain dan amat menghargai bantuan yang diberikan syarikat berkenaan.

Katanya, Masjid Al Firdaus menjadi pusat tumpuan penduduk Kampung Balung Cocos dengan kehadiran jemaah mencecah antara 400 hingga 500 orang setiap solat Jumaat, manakala jumlah itu meningkat sehingga ribuan orang ketika sambutan Aidiladha dan Aidilfitri.

Hadir sama pada majlis itu Pengerusi AuMAS Dr Frederick Chong, Pengurus Besar, Adji Prihananto (Pak Adji), Presiden Persatuan Balung Cocos Sabah, Alipa Jackery dan Ahli Jawatan Kuasa Masjid Al Firdaus.

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Chong Tzu Khen returns to lead AuMAS as CEO https://sabahmedia.com/2026/05/06/chong-tzu-khen-returns-to-lead-aumas-as-ceo/ https://sabahmedia.com/2026/05/06/chong-tzu-khen-returns-to-lead-aumas-as-ceo/#respond Wed, 06 May 2026 04:51:16 +0000 https://sabahmedia.com/?p=96211
Read Time:2 Minute, 27 Second

By Normimie Diun

KOTA KINABALU: AuMAS Resources Berhad has announced the appointment of Chong Tzu Khen as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective 1 May 2026.

Chong is no stranger to the company, having previously served as Executive Director on 26 May 2023 and later as CEO on 31 May 2023, before stepping down from both positions on 31 July 2025.

During his earlier tenure with AuMAS, he played a key role in the group’s financial management and operations, and also served as a director of Wullersdorf Resources Sdn. Bhd., a wholly owned subsidiary of the company.

Under his leadership at Wullersdorf Resources Sdn. Bhd. (WRSB), Chong successfully orchestrated a financial turnaround. When he took over the management, the company recorded a loss of RM14.0 million in June 2023. Through his strategic planning and leadership in building a cohesive and committed team, he turned the company around to record a profit of RM1.0 million for the financial year ended 30 September 2023.

He continued to lead the company’s strong performance over the following two financial years, achieving profits after taxation of RM32.0 million and RM33.0 million for the financial years ended 30 September 2024 and 30 September 2025 respectively.

Under his management, AuMAS also declared and distributed dividends three times, totaling 4 sen per share to its shareholders, a milestone that had not been achieved prior to his leadership.

In terms of qualifications, Chong has a strong academic background in finance and aquaculture, holding a Master’s degree in Financial Planning from the University of the Sunshine Coast, as well as certificates in Sustainable Aquaculture from the University of St. Andrews.

He is also a Fellow of the Malaysian Association of Company Secretaries (MACS), reflecting his expertise in corporate governance and compliance.

Tracing his early career, Chong began as an Audit Assistant at P.L. Yap & Co. before joining Jetniyo Sdn. Bhd. as an Accounts Executive. In 1985, he established his own firm, T.K. Chong Commercial Services in Sandakan, providing accounting services to local companies.

He later joined Cepatwawasan Sdn. Bhd. in 1995 as Company Secretary and group accountant, before being promoted to Personal Assistant to the Managing Director from 2001 to 2004.

His reappointment as CEO is seen as a move to strengthen AuMAS’ strategic direction, particularly in advancing the company’s growth agenda and operational consolidation.

Chong said he remains committed to building a stronger, high-performing team to ensure sustainable business growth.

“My main focus is to empower every team member so they have clear direction, sound decision-making capabilities, and a shared drive for excellence.

“We will operate as one cohesive team that is supportive, principled, and ready to face industry challenges. With combined experience and commitment, I am confident we can take the company to greater heights,” he said when contacted by the media.

He also emphasised that strong teamwork and unwavering commitment remain the foundation of organisational success.

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AuMAS Secures Renewal of Mining Licence for Bukit Mantri Gold Project https://sabahmedia.com/2026/04/21/aumas-secures-renewal-of-mining-licence-for-bukit-mantri-gold-project/ https://sabahmedia.com/2026/04/21/aumas-secures-renewal-of-mining-licence-for-bukit-mantri-gold-project/#respond Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:35:23 +0000 https://sabahmedia.com/?p=95289
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KOTA KINABALU: AuMAS Resources Berhad has announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Wullersdorf Resources Sdn. Bhd. (WRSB), has secured a renewal of its Operational Mining Scheme (OMS) licence from the Minerals and Geoscience Department Malaysia in Sabah.

In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the company stated that the renewal allows WRSB to continue operations at the Bukit Mantri gold mine, where it serves as the project operator.

The Board of Directors of AuMAS affirmed that the approval of the OMS licence reflects the project’s compliance with all required regulatory conditions, including resource conservation, landscape management, effluent control, security measures, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), as well as engagement with residents of nearby villages.

Notably, the renewed licence is valid until 9 April 2027. This represents a one-year extension compared to previous renewals, which were granted for six-month durations—a clear indication that the company is gaining greater confidence from government regulatory bodies.

The latest announcement follows a series of earlier disclosures made on 24 February 2025, 30 April 2025, 6 May 2025, and 13 October 2025 regarding the status and regulatory progress of the mining project.

The company reiterated its commitment to maintaining regulatory compliance and high operational standards in its circular economy‑based sustainable mining activities.

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All resolutions at AuMas 21st AGM passed with overwhelming shareholder support https://sabahmedia.com/2026/03/27/all-resolutions-at-aumas-21st-agm-passed-with-overwhelming-shareholder-support/ https://sabahmedia.com/2026/03/27/all-resolutions-at-aumas-21st-agm-passed-with-overwhelming-shareholder-support/#respond Fri, 27 Mar 2026 03:28:40 +0000 https://sabahmedia.com/?p=93853
Read Time:1 Minute, 25 Second

TAWAU: All resolutions tabled at the 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of AuMas Resources Berhad on Thursday were approved by a large majority through a poll voting process.

The meeting, which commenced at 10am at the Western Hall of LA Hotel here, saw each resolution receive near-unanimous support from shareholders.

In an official announcement, the Board of Directors confirmed that all resolutions contained in the Notice of AGM dated 30 January 2026 were duly passed.

The voting results were independently verified by Arete Consulting Sdn Bhd.
among the key resolutions approved was the payment of fees and benefits to non-executive directors of up to RM500,000.

The resolution garnered close to 100 per cent support, with more than 571 million shares voting in favour.

Shareholders also endorsed the re-election of several board members, including Md Ajib Anuar, Wong Ji Yung and Tew Xue Shan.

All resolutions related to these reappointments received more than 98 per cent approval, reflecting strong investor confidence in the existing leadership.

The meeting further approved the reappointment of Baker Tilly Monteiro Heng PLT as the company’s external auditor for the coming financial year, while also authorising the directors to determine their remuneration.

In addition, a resolution empowering the directors to issue and allot shares pursuant to Sections 75 and 76 of the Companies Act 2016 was passed with a strong majority.

Overall, the voting outcomes reflected exceptionally high levels of shareholder support, with most resolutions securing over 99 per cent in favour, while votes against remained minimal.

The results are seen as a strong signal of shareholder confidence in the company’s strategic direction and operational stability, particularly amid an increasingly challenging gold mining industry landscape.

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Vacancies : Build Your Career in Gold Mining at Bukit Mantri, Tawau, Sabah. https://sabahmedia.com/2026/03/24/vacancies-build-your-career-in-gold-mining-at-bukit-mantri-tawau-sabah/ https://sabahmedia.com/2026/03/24/vacancies-build-your-career-in-gold-mining-at-bukit-mantri-tawau-sabah/#respond Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:16:41 +0000 https://sabahmedia.com/?p=93507
Read Time:3 Minute, 24 Second

Now Hiring at Wullersdorf Resources Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of AuMAS Resources Bhd.

AuMAS Resources Bhd is a local Sabah company, a fully integrated gold mining company listed on the Bursa Malaysia Security Bhd. A leader in the gold mining industry and an unwavering commitment to safety, sustainability, and community development. Our operations at the historic Bukit Mantri site are at the forefront of modern mining and mineral processing technology. We are dedicated to responsible resource extraction, environmental stewardship, and investing in our most valuable asset: our people, you.

Seeking Talented Individuals for the following positions;

  1. Mineral Processing Engineer (2 Positions: Senior & Junior RM 15000 – 4000)
  • Responsibilities: Oversee feed grades control, processing plant performance, conduct metallurgical testing, gold and by product recovery control.
  • Requirements: Degree in Chemical Engineering/ mineral processing.
  • Senior Role: Minimum 10 years of experience in gold processing plants.
  • Junior Role: 1-2 years of experience or fresh graduates with strong academic credentials.
  • Resource Geologist (2 Positions: Senior & Junior RM 25000 – 5000)
  • Responsibilities: Resource development, geological and resource modelling, drilling targets and resource estimation.
  • Requirements: Degree in Geology or Earth Sciences.
  • Senior Role: Minimum of 20 years of experience in gold mining, with proven experience in resource estimation.
  • Junior Role: Fresh graduates and those with up to 2 years of experience are encouraged to apply.
  •  Mining Geologist Engineer (2 Positions RM 25000 – 5000)
  • Responsibilities: Geological modelling, pit layouts design production planning, and compliance with engineering and safety standards.
  • Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering. Proficiency in mine planning software (e.g., Datamine, Surpac,). Strong analytical and project management skills.
  • Health, Safety, & Environment (HSE) Officer (2 Positions RM 15000 – 5000)
  • Responsibilities: Implement and monitor HSE programs, conduct risk assessments and audits, safety audit & training, and compliance with DOSH and environmental regulations.
  • Requirements: Formal qualification (NIOSH, Diploma/Degree) in Occupational Health & Safety. Experience in a mining or heavy industrial environment.
  • Workshop Manager (1 Position RM 15000)
  • Responsibilities: Lead and manage the maintenance workshop, planning, scheduling, and executing repairs for heavy mining equipment, inventory and budgets.
  • Requirements: Diploma/Degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Minimum 10 years of experience in heavy equipment maintenance, with at least 5 years in a supervisory role.

  • Chemist (2 positions RM5000)
  • Requirements; degree/diploma in Chemistry or biochemistry.
  • Heavy Duty Diesel Mechanic (4 Positions RM 4000)
  • Responsibilities: maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on heavy mining equipment (haul trucks, excavators, drilling equipment).
  • Requirements: Relevant trade certification. Proven experience with CAT, Komatsu, or Hitachi machinery.
  • Mineral Processing Plant Operator (4 Positions RM3000 – 4000)
  • Responsibilities: Monitor control systems, crushing/grinding operation monitoring to optimize gold recovery. Routine inspections and sampling.
  • Requirements: Experience in a mineral processing plant would be an advantage. SPM leavers with a strong technical aptitude and a focus on safety are encouraged to apply.
  • Electrician (2 Positions Rm 3000 – 4000)
  • Responsibilities: Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems and power supplies for mining and processing equipment.
  • Requirements: Certified Electrician. Experience with high-voltage systems and industrial electrical controls is highly advantageous.
  1. Heavy Truck Driver (6 Positions RM 3000 – 4000)
  • Responsibilities: operate heavy vehicles and dump trucks within the mining sites, observing all traffic and safety protocols.
  • Requirements: Possess a valid D licence. Previous experience in an industrial or mining sector is an advantage.

We are looking for individuals who are:

  • Dedicated to upholding the highest standards of work and safety.
  • Team players with strong problem-solving skills.
  • Resilient, adaptable, and able to thrive in a dynamic environment.

Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your suitability for your desired role to our online portal: (Link to Portal) or send your application to:

PIC :   Mohd Asmerwan
Email : [email protected]
Contact Number :
Tel office : 089-747 747

                     : +60 19-550 5113.

Application Deadline: 15th April 2026.

AuMAS Resources Bhd is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to an inclusive environment for all employees. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality. Sabahan are encouraged to apply.

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Insider trading claims and “41 missing doré bars”: High court examines evidentiary foundations in AuMas/WRSB dispute https://sabahmedia.com/2026/03/02/insider-trading-claims-and-41-missing-dore-bars-high-court-examines-evidentiary-foundations-in-aumas-wrsb-dispute/ https://sabahmedia.com/2026/03/02/insider-trading-claims-and-41-missing-dore-bars-high-court-examines-evidentiary-foundations-in-aumas-wrsb-dispute/#respond Mon, 02 Mar 2026 04:39:28 +0000 https://sabahmedia.com/?p=92502
Read Time:4 Minute, 35 Second

TAWAU: The High Court proceedings last week placed two major allegations under sustained judicial scrutiny insider trading linked to share price movements and the claim of “41 missing gold doré bars” in the ongoing corporate dispute involving AuMas Resources Berhad (formerly Bahvest Resources Berhad and previously Borneo Aqua Harvest Berhad).

The matter, heard before Judicial Commissioner Steve Ritikos, saw Plaintiff Witness 1 (PW1), Chong Tzu Khen, cross-examined in detail on the factual and documentary basis of both allegations.

Taken together, the exchanges reveal a court process focused not on rhetoric, but on evidentiary thresholds documentary proof, regulatory action, and causal linkage.

Insider Trading: Allegation Acknowledged, Regulatory Action Absent

During cross-examination last week, defence counsel put directly to Chong that his assertion that Datuk Lo Fui Ming caused fluctuations in the company’s share price amounted to an allegation of market manipulation.

Chong agreed that his position carried that implication, explaining that in his view, leadership direction and corporate decisions could influence investor perception and price movement.

Counsel further suggested that Chong’s position effectively amounted to an allegation of insider trading in connection with a RM20.4 million demand. Chong agreed that this was his allegation, maintaining that the timing and circumstances raised concerns from his perspective.

However, under questioning, Chong confirmed that after becoming a director on 26 May 2023, he did not lodge any formal complaint with Bursa Malaysia or the Securities Commission Malaysia.

He also confirmed that no civil proceedings specifically premised on insider trading had been initiated, explaining that his priority after assuming directorship was stabilising mining operations and protecting shareholder interests.

The defence suggested that the absence of regulatory referral weakened the allegation. Chong disagreed, maintaining that his concerns remained valid notwithstanding the absence of a formal complaint.

Share Price Volatility: Structural vs Personal Attribution

The court also examined whether share price movements could be attributed to a single individual.

Chong agreed that share prices of public listed companies are influenced by multiple variables, including financial performance, economic conditions, foreign fund flows and currency strength. He nevertheless maintained that the CEO’s strategic direction and decisions form part of the broader ecosystem influencing investor sentiment.

Defence counsel highlighted that historical disclosures showed fluctuating profits and losses over several years, and that such volatility predated the 2023 dispute.

ESOS, Dilution and Timing

The Employee Share Option Scheme (ESOS) was also examined as a contextual factor.

Chong agreed that ESOS implementation requires shareholder approval and Bursa disclosure. He further acknowledged that he had not recorded written objections prior to the 26 April 2023 requisition notice.

He maintained that the potential dilution effect would materialise if the 180 million ESOS shares were exercised, and that this formed part of his broader concern regarding corporate governance.

The defence suggested that the ESOS was compliant with listing requirements and that Chong himself stood to benefit as an eligible participant. Chong agreed that participation could increase shareholding, but maintained that dilution remained a structural issue.

“41 Missing Gold Doré Bars”: Accounting Inference vs Physical Proof

Parallel to the market-based allegations, the court also scrutinised claims that 41 gold doré bars were removed under the previous management of Wullersdorf Resources Sdn Bhd (WRSB).

Under cross-examination, the court heard that Chong lodged two police reports on 26 June 2023 within approximately 40 minutes of each other. He confirmed that the second report stated it was made for the court’s attention only and not for further police investigation.

Only the first report was exhibited in support of an ex-parte injunction.

Defence counsel suggested that police reports constitute complaints rather than proof of wrongdoing. Chong disagreed, maintaining that the reports were necessary steps.

The evidentiary foundation of the “41 bars” claim was then examined.

Chong acknowledged that gold production does not necessarily result in immediate sale, doré bars may be accumulated, re-batched or re-smelted, no specific SOP or regulation was produced requiring each produced bar to correspond to a sales invoice within the same accounting sequence.

He also confirmed that no biometric logs, CCTV records, access controls or audit trails were produced in the Common Bundle of Documents (CBOD) demonstrating exclusive control of the gold room by the named former management.

While disputing suggestions that others had access, he agreed that no documentary evidence excluding such access was exhibited.

On the tax issue, Chong referred to an Inland Revenue Board (IRB) document but accepted that it referred to undeclared income and did not expressly state that 41 bars were missing. He agreed that tax reconciliation discrepancies do not in themselves prove theft.

He further confirmed that the royalty recording mechanism of Jabatan Mineral dan Geosains Malaysia (JMG) is based on production declarations rather than physical counting of bars.

The defence position was that the missing bars allegation was derived largely from accounting comparison and inference rather than direct evidence of physical removal.

Cross-examination concluded at Question 1027 at the request of counsel. The question-and-answer proceedings were conducted by two defence counsels, Andy Tay and Henry Lim.

Plaintiffs are represented by Norbert Yapp & Associates with Azimi Yahya, while defendants are represented by Andy Tay & Associates, along with Lawrence Chai and Peter Soong & Partners.

The Court fixed further hearing dates on 27–30 April 2026 (27 April at 2.30 p.m.; others at 9.00 a.m.) 13–15 May 2026, 18–22 May 2026. Additional dates in June and July 2026 have been proposed for reservation.

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Former CEO disputes AuMas acknowledgment in Court https://sabahmedia.com/2026/02/24/former-ceo-disputes-aumas-acknowledgment-in-court/ https://sabahmedia.com/2026/02/24/former-ceo-disputes-aumas-acknowledgment-in-court/#respond Tue, 24 Feb 2026 10:44:16 +0000 https://sabahmedia.com/?p=92197
Read Time:1 Minute, 21 Second

TAWAU: Former AuMas Resources Berhad CEO, Chong Tzu Khen, today rejected claims in official company announcements that the company had acknowledged operating beyond permitted boundaries, during the ongoing civil trial involving AuMas, its subsidiary Wullersdorf Resources Sdn Bhd (WRSB), and Southsea Gold Sdn Bhd, alongside Datuk Lo Fui Ming, Lo Teck Yong, and Chong Khing Chung.

In cross-examination before Judicial Commissioner Steve Ritikos at the High Court of Tawau, lawyer Andy Tay cited Bahvest’s announcements on 8 and 9 May 2023, which suggested that the company had recognized its operations exceeded permitted limits. Chong disagreed, asserting that the announcements did not constitute any such acknowledgment.

The session also touched on four Letters of Demand issued by Southsea Gold. Chong testified that he first came across the letters only when called as a witness by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in July 2023 and maintained that there was no official finding declaring the letters false. He emphasized that any belief about backdating of the letters was his personal view rather than established fact.

The questioning highlighted the trial’s central dispute over whether the letters represented legitimate claims or were allegedly retaliatory actions against former management. Tay further noted that the company had never accused Datuk Lo Fui Ming of forgery in the announcements and that Chong, as a board member, had not requested any corrections or withdrawals.

The trial will continue tomorrow at 9:00 a.m.

Plaintiffs are represented by Norbert Yapp & Associates with Azimi Yahya, while defendants are represented by Andy Tay & Associates, along with Lawrence Chai and Peter Soong & Partners.

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Cross-examination of former AuMas CEO on RM20.4 million claim continues on seventh day https://sabahmedia.com/2026/02/24/cross-examination-of-former-aumas-ceo-on-rm20-4-million-claim-continues-on-seventh-day/ https://sabahmedia.com/2026/02/24/cross-examination-of-former-aumas-ceo-on-rm20-4-million-claim-continues-on-seventh-day/#respond Tue, 24 Feb 2026 10:16:58 +0000 https://sabahmedia.com/?p=92195
Read Time:2 Minute, 47 Second

TAWAU: The seventh day of the civil trial involving AuMas Resources Berhad (formerly known as Bahvest Resources Berhad) saw the continuation of the cross-examination of the plaintiff’s first witness (PW1), former AuMas Chief Executive Officer Chong Tzu Khen, over a RM20.4 million claim before Judicial Commissioner Steve Ritikos at the High Court here today.

The proceedings focused on four letters forming the basis of the claim, with questions from defence counsel (DC) Andy Tay centred on the authenticity of the documents, the timeline of receipt, and prior public disclosures.

Chong agreed that he only saw the four letters in July 2023 and acknowledged that there was no forensic report or official finding declaring the documents to be forged. He also confirmed that the letters had been disclosed to the public through announcements to Bursa Malaysia before July 2023.

Key questions and answers during the cross-examination included:

DC: When did you first see these letters, date please?
PW1: Sometimes in July 2023.

DC: You confirmed the date in July 2023?
PW1: Yes.

DC: You have not obtained any forensic report concluding those letters are forged and you have not produced any expert evidence confirming forgery, correct?
PW1: I agree. But… (“But…” the witness means he will respond in writing later)

DC: There is no official finding that those letters are forged, agree?
PW1: I agree. But…

DC: These letters were announced to the public via Bursa Malaysia before July 2023 (Enclosure 135 CBOD Part B vol 3 pages 833-836, 850-853, 854-857 and 858-859), agree?
PW1: I agree. But…

DC: When did you become a director of Bahvest, date please?
PW1: On 26 May 2023.

DC: By becoming a director of Bahvest, you had knowledge of these letters before July 2023, correct?
PW1: I only knew there were announcements on the RM20.4 million demand by Southsea Gold.

DC: This RM20.4 million is an eye-catching figure to you. Is it not a substantial amount that a reasonable person would proceed further to read the basis of the claim, agree or not?
PW1: I agree. But there were temporary resolutions for a non-refundable deposit of RM13 million to be settled in two tranches. The first payment of RM6 million was made on 10 May 2023 and the balance of RM7 million to be paid on or before the end of May 2023.

DC: By your detailed answer above, do you agree with me that you actually read all the announcements and understand inside out the whole RM20.4 million demand related to the four letters and the subsequent settlement, agree?
PW1: I agree. But…

The court also examined issues surrounding the earlier acquisition of Wullersdorf Resources Sdn Bhd, including a Letter of Consent dated 18 September 2015, which was appended to a circular to shareholders dated 28 December 2016 and made publicly accessible.

Chong agreed there was no deliberate concealment of the letter and that no document had been produced in court stating that it was an official pre-condition to the acquisition.

The plaintiffs, AuMas/Bahvest and Wullersdorf Resources Sdn Bhd, are represented by Norbert Yapp & Associates and Azimi Yahya, while the defendants are represented by Andy Tay & Associates together with Lawrence Chai and Peter Soong & Partners.

The proceedings were adjourned and will resume tomorrow.

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AuMas–Southsea claim trial begins at Tawau High Court https://sabahmedia.com/2025/11/25/aumas-southsea-claim-trial-begins-at-tawau-high-court/ https://sabahmedia.com/2025/11/25/aumas-southsea-claim-trial-begins-at-tawau-high-court/#respond Tue, 25 Nov 2025 00:36:05 +0000 https://sabahmedia.com/?p=86925
Read Time:1 Minute, 33 Second

By Normimie Diun

TAWAU: The Tawau High Court yesterday (24 Nov) commenced the civil trial involving AuMas Resources Berhad (Bahvest Resources Berhad) and its wholly owned subsidiary, Wullersdorf Resources Sdn Bhd (WRSB), against Datuk Lo Fui Ming, Lo Teck Yong, Chong Khing Chung and Southsea Gold Sdn Bhd.

The case, heard before Judge Steve Ritikos, concerns multiple claims filed by the plaintiffs against the defendants. AuMas/Bahvest and WRSB are represented by Norbert Yapp & Associates and Azimi Yahya, while the defendants are represented by Andy Tay & Associates together with Lawrence Chai, Peter Soong & Partners.

Fui Ming was present during the proceedings.

The trial is scheduled to call nine witnesses. The first witness, former AuMas Chief Executive Officer Chong Tzu Khen, testified yesterday, with proceedings continuing today where four additional witnesses are expected to take the stand.

According to court documents, the plaintiffs are seeking various reliefs, including:

• A declaration that Datuk Lo Fui Ming (LFM) and Lo Teck Yong (LTY) breached their fiduciary duties, duty of care and statutory duties towards Bahvest and WRSB.
• A declaration that LFM, LTY and Chong Khing Chung exercised their powers for an improper purpose.
• A declaration that the Temporary Resolution between WRSB and Southsea is null and void.
• An order for the return of RM6 million paid by WRSB to Southsea on 10 May 2023.
• An injunction restraining Southsea from taking further steps in relation to the demand dated 2 May 2023 or the Temporary Resolution, including requesting or receiving any payment.
• An injunction restraining Southsea from removing WRSB from its land or otherwise obstructing the company’s operations.
• General damages, exemplary damages and aggravated damages against the defendants.
• Interest at five percent per annum on the judgment sum until full settlement, costs, and any further relief deemed appropriate by the court.

The trial continues today with further witness testimonies.

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AuMAS restores operations, delivers strong dividends https://sabahmedia.com/2025/11/24/aumas-restores-operations-delivers-strong-dividends/ https://sabahmedia.com/2025/11/24/aumas-restores-operations-delivers-strong-dividends/#respond Mon, 24 Nov 2025 10:10:14 +0000 https://sabahmedia.com/?p=86906
Read Time:2 Minute, 28 Second

KUALA LUMPUR: AuMAS Resources Berhad (AuMAS), Malaysia’s premier listed gold mining company, today announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended 30 September 2025.

The Group demonstrated remarkable resilience, achieving a full operational recovery in the final quarter and capitalising on record-high gold prices to deliver strong profitability and shareholder returns.

For the full year FY2025, the Group reported a total revenue of RM248.57 million, driven by the production of 566.42 kilograms of gold doré and 625.59 kilograms of silver doré.

Performance accelerated sharply in the fourth quarter following the resolution of a sabotage incident in May 2025 that temporarily disrupted operations at the Bukit Mantri facility. With operations restored to full capacity in July, the Group achieved a robust operating profit exceeding RM64.00 million in 4Q2025.

Gold doré production for the quarter reached 199.44 kilograms, generating precious metals revenue of RM98.50 million. AuMAS benefited significantly from a surging gold price environment, which rose from approximately RM367,000 per kilogram in October 2024 to over RM525,000 per kilogram by September 2025.

“FY2025 was a testament to our team’s operational discipline and resilience,” said Dr. Frederick Chong, Executive Director of AuMAS in a statement today.

“After navigating unprecedented challenges in Q3, our swift response enabled us to not only stabilize operations but to return to normalized production momentum in Q4. With a strong balance sheet and minimal debt, we are now firmly focused on executing our growth strategy for FY2026.”

This strategy includes the development of a new processing plant, optimisation of existing mining areas, and the advancement of the exploration contract at Mount Andrassy, located 10 km from the Bukit Mantri site.

The new processing plant remains central to the Group’s FY2026 strategy. Coupled with planned mine development, it is designed to increase resource availability, operational scale and processing efficiency. Furthermore, the successful renewal of the Operational Mining Scheme (OMS) licence in October 2025 secures the Group’s long-term operational continuity.

Demonstrating confidence in its financial health and future prospects, the Board has declared a first interim single-tier dividend of 1.5 sen per ordinary share for FY2026, amounting to RM27,322,462.11. This is in addition to the FY2025 dividend of 2.5 sen per share, bringing the total dividend payout for the year to approximately RM72.85 million.

“The interim dividend will be paid on 23 December 2025 to shareholders on record as of 8 December 2025,” according to the statement.

As part of a strengthened risk management framework, the Group has rolled out robust new security protocols. These include upgraded perimeter security and continuous boundary surveillance, specifically designed to mitigate the risk of any future disruptions.

AuMAS Resources Berhad is a Malaysia-based investment holding company primarily engaged in gold mining. As the only Bursa-listed company with gold mining as its core business, the Group operates the Bukit Mantri mine in Tawau, Sabah.

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