Najib reportedly seeking pardon for 1MDB corruption scandal
One outcome could be that he serves the rest of his sentence under house arrest.
Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has reportedly submitted a clemency application for his involvement in the 1MDB corruption scandal, according to local reports. The 74-year-old has been incarcerated since August 23, 2022, serving his six-year prison sentence and RM50 million fine, which were reduced from an initial 12-year term and RM210 million fine in early 2024.
Local media reports indicate that the Federal Territories Pardons Board will discuss Najib's petition during a meeting on September 11, though it remains unclear whether a decision will be made or if the matter will simply be deliberated. Sources familiar with the situation suggest that a possible outcome could allow Najib to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest.
The pardon board, headed by Malaysia's king and comprising cabinet minister Hannah Yeoh, could potentially exacerbate the existing tensions between Najib's former party, UMNO, and Anwar Ibrahim's Pakatan Harapan government. Pakatan Harapan spokespersons have stated that convicted individuals in major corruption or abuse of power cases should serve their entire sentences.
In December 2025, a court reduced Najib's prison sentence for abuse of power and money laundering related to 1MDB to 15 additional years, plus an RM11.4 billion fine. If granted clemency, Najib has suggested he might return to politics.
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