Anwar emphasizes stability in Malaysia’s unity government while distancing himself from the controversial Najib case.
SINGAPORE: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has reiterated that the decision on former premier Najib Razak’s bid to serve the remainder of his six-year jail sentence under house arrest lies with the Pardons Board and the country’s monarch.
Speaking at the Parti Keadilan Rakyat’s (PKR) 25th anniversary convention on Sunday (Apr 21), Mr. Anwar said, “The decision must be made at the Pardons Board meeting, and the final decision by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong must also be made at the meeting.”
The Pardons Board, which reviews such requests, comprises the attorney-general, the chief minister, and other appointees by the king or state ruler. Federal Territories Minister Dr. Zaliha Mustafa is among those overseeing Najib’s bid.
Emphasis on Unity
Mr. Anwar highlighted the unity among Malaysia’s coalition government parties, addressing speculation of internal discord following Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s affidavit regarding alleged royal support for Najib’s bid.
The unity government is a coalition of Mr. Anwar’s Pakatan Harapan (PH), Barisan Nasional (BN)—of which UMNO is a component—and parties from Sabah and Sarawak. Mr. Anwar stated, “Voices outside the Cabinet do not necessarily represent the leadership,” adding that no significant rifts have emerged within the coalition.
Controversy Surrounding Najib’s Case
Najib Razak, imprisoned since August 2022 for his involvement in the 1MDB scandal, is seeking house arrest after the Pardons Board halved his initial 12-year sentence in January. The move has sparked allegations of favoritism and impunity.
An affidavit filed by Mr. Zahid claims that Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz presented evidence of royal approval for Najib’s house arrest during a meeting. However, Mr. Zafrul disputes the claims, calling them factually inaccurate.
Najib’s future hinges on a decision set for June 5, with analysts warning of potential tensions between UMNO and the unity government should the bid be approved.
Political Implications
The controversy surrounding Najib and Mr. Zahid, who himself faced corruption charges in 2018, poses challenges for Mr. Anwar’s administration. Critics argue that granting house arrest to Najib could undermine the government’s credibility and alienate voters.
Mr. Anwar, however, remains focused on fostering stability within the coalition, underscoring the importance of unity as Malaysia navigates these politically sensitive issues.
