Former PM Expresses Remorse Over 1MDB
KUALA LUMPUR — In a surprising move, former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak publicly apologised to the Malaysian people regarding the notorious 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal. The apology came during a press conference on 24 October 2024, where his son, Datuk Mohd Nizar, read out Najib’s heartfelt statement.
Acknowledging the Fallout
More than 26 months into his prison sentence, Najib reflected on his time in jail and the implications of the scandal that thrust Malaysia into the international spotlight. “It pains me to know the 1MDB debacle happened under my watch as the minister of finance and prime minister,” Najib expressed, conveying his deep sorrow over the matter.
Legal Conundrums
While the former leader took a moment to express remorse, he maintained that he was not the mastermind behind the irregularities. Najib stressed, “I have already been punished politically, but as I am clearly not the mastermind and neither did I collaborate with Jho Low, I should not be victimised legally.” His defence hinges on the assertion that he believed the funds he authorised were political donations from Saudi Arabia.
The Shadow of 1MDB
- 1MDB, co-founded by Najib in 2009, is at the centre of various corruption probes across multiple countries.
- Allegations suggest that over US$4.5 billion was misappropriated, sparking international investigations.
- Najib is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence for corruption and money laundering related to the fund.
Looking Ahead
On 30 October 2024, a Malaysian court will determine whether to acquit Najib or require him to present a defence against additional charges arising from the scandal, keeping the nation on edge regarding the future of its political landscape.