The Australian government is trying to avoid investigating local links to a Malaysian corruption scandal, according to the country’s former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad.

In an exclusive interview with SBS World News the former leader of Malaysia, Mahathir Mohamad – who ruled the country with an iron-grip for 22 years – said Australia was turning a blind eye to corruption over the 1 Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) state investment fund.

“Australia has been involved to a certain extent but it looks as if the government of Australia wants to avoid any involvement in this crime committed,” Dr Mahathir said.

Read the full story and watch the full interview here – http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2017/05/09/australia-avoiding-investigating-malaysian-corruption-scandal-says-former-pm