KUALA LUMPUR, June 7 — The decision on whether to publicly broadcast the Public Accounts Committee’s proceedings over 1 Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) is the prerogative of the Dewan Rakyat Speaker, a federal minister said today.

According to Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin, Communication and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek had previously made the proposal to televise the PAC’s hearings.

"We from the government have no problem but the decision lies with the Speaker as he has to agree. If he doesn't, there is no need, as it is under the Parliament," Khairy told reporters after launching the Art of Speed event in Serdang.

Khairy also rubbished claims that former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad should be called to attend the PAC’s investigation into 1MDB, saying the latter was not an active participant in the firm.

"Whoever who gets called up must have connections with the proceedings. The suggestion to call up Dr Mahathir, he has nothing to do with 1MDB.

"In PAC, they only call up those who are related with 1MDB," he added.

Yesterday, former deputy minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah suggested that PAC hearings be broadcast on state-owned television channels.

PAC member and DAP MP Tony Pua today also recommended that the committee’s hearing be open to public scrutiny and media coverage.

The PAC is currently investigating 1MDB over its business deals and RM42 billion in debt.