PM of Malaysia called old man. Too many incidents on private visit to Sarawak, drunk and totally incapacitated on golf course, fondling a few women including grabbing the breast of the wife of a state minister. Mohd Taib territory. The most powerful power broker and richest man in Malaysia.
If Singapore did not act, the Malaysia would have gone public via the press as too many people involved.
Interestingly Devan tendered his resignation shortly after admission and examination had been done, No one pushed him. He then changed his mind after the letter went to the speaker.
Paul Tambyah would know better as his father flew to Kuching to bring back Devan.