Around the World: Malaysia

Astronaut to be probed

Malaysian authorities will investigate allegations that the country's first astronaut collected hundreds of thousands of dollars in lecture fees in violation of an agreement with the government, a report said yesterday.

Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Fadillah Yusof said the ministry has received letters complaining that Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor has charged $2,222 an hour to speak at 150 corporate functions since his return from space in October, the national news agency reported.

Under a contract expiring Dec 31, Sheikh Muszaphar is prohibited from receiving any remuneration except from the government in connection with his pioneering space mission.

(China Daily 11/24/2008 page7)