Malaysia has taken exception to US State Department spokesman Tom Casey drawing parallels between the sodomy charge against Ibrahim in 1998 which was overturned and the fresh allegation, warning against a "politically motivated probe" against the opposition leader.

"The comments were uncalled for and Malaysia takes a serious view in respect of this position. We made it very clear in our letter that we are displeased with the statement. I hope this is taken stock of," Yatim was quoted by The Star Online as saying.