Inside the Fake ‘Datuk Seri’ RM400,000 Investment Scam

A man claiming to be a “Datuk Seri” is being investigated after several people reported losing money in an investment scheme linked to him. Recently, two more victims came forward in Kuala Lumpur, adding to the growing number of complaints of this “Datuk Seri” investment scam.

Earlier this week, Datuk Seri Michael Chong, head of the MCA Public Services and Complaints Department, said his office had received six reports involving the same man. One victim lost RM400,000 in what was promoted as a high-level investment opportunity.

The man reportedly used a fancy title and claimed to have royal connections to win peoples trust. Chong said the man once came to his office asking to hold a press conference to defend himself, but cancelled at the last minute, saying he was unwell. Later, he threatened to sue both Chong and the Council of Datuk-Datuk Malaysia (MDDM).

Chong questioned the mans credibility, pointing to suspicious phrases on his name car,d such as “Ahli Istana Anak Angkat” (adopted royal family member). He also showed a copy of an identity card belonging to the man's partner, who called herself “Putri.” The card listed an address linked to the title “Undang Luak Johol Ke-14.”

To confirm whether these titles are real, the documents have been sent to the Datuk Lembaga Suku Biduanda Raja Balang Luak Johol for review. Chong urged any other victims to report the case to the police and come forward with any proof they have.

Datuk Samson David Maman, president of MDDM, confirmed they had received similar complaints. He warned the public to be careful, as many scammers falsely claim royal or noble status. He advised people to verify such claims using the official website of the Bahagian Istiadat dan Urusetia Persidangan Antarabangsa.

Datuk Hamzah Limin, a representative from the traditional council of Luak Johol, said royal titles must be formally granted by the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan during official ceremonies. Titles given in hotels or private events are not valid, he added.

He also warned that using royal symbols, language, or fake titles like “anak angkat,” “puteri,” or “putera” is misleading and can be punished by law. According to him, no such titles have been given by the current Datuk Undang Johol.

In light of this case, experts are advising the public to be extra careful when approached with investment offers, especially those promising high returns and using royal or noble names.

One practical tool for verifying legitimacy is WikiFX, a free mobile application that provides detailed regulatory information about global investment brokers. It includes customer reviews, regulatory credentials, and risk assessments, helping users avoid unlicensed platforms and fraudulent investment scams.

With financial scams on the rise, vigilance and verification remain the publics strongest defences.