KUALA LUMPUR – In a notable legal development, a Malaysian court has acquitted former Finance Minister Daim Zainuddin from failing to declare his assets, just days after his passing on 13 November 2023.
Acquittal Details
The Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court’s Judge Azura Alwi announced the acquittal on 20 November 2023, after the prosecution indicated they did not wish to pursue the case against the late minister. Judge Alwi expressed her condolences to Daim’s family, wishing for his soul to rest in peace.
Ongoing Legal Issues for His Wife
- Daim’s wife, Na’imah Abdul Khalid, faces charges for allegedly failing to declare her assets.
- Deputy Public Prosecutor Wan Shaharuddin Wan Ladin confirmed that the case against Na’imah will proceed, with a hearing set for 15 January 2024.
If found guilty, Na’imah, aged 66, could face up to five years in prison and fines of RM100,000. Her charges are serious, as they relate to a written statement regarding asset declarations that allegedly did not comply with a notice from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
Background of the Case
Before his death, Daim was embroiled in controversy, charged in January 2024 with failing to declare a substantial portfolio of assets. Allegedly, these included:
- 38 companies
- 25 properties across several Malaysian states
- Luxury vehicles, among them a Rolls Royce and three Mercedes Benz
- The multi-million dollar Ilham Tower, which was seized by the MACC
Daim had maintained his innocence throughout, referring to the investigations as a “political witch-hunt” orchestrated by the anti-graft agency and current Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
A Plea for Justice
In a poignant moment, a day prior to the court hearing, Na’imah implored authorities not to drop the charges against Daim, advocating for a trial to exonerate him. Her lawyer, Dr Gurdial Singh Nijar, echoed this sentiment in court, emphasizing Daim’s desire to clear his name while he was still alive.