Decision to defer Najib’s pardon bid is Agong’s prerogative, says PM
Anwar Ibrahim says his role was to give his views based on the law and the attorney-general's advice.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that the decision to postpone former Prime Minister Najib Razak's pardon application to the next meeting of the Federal Territories Pardons Board (FTFB) was within the King's (Yang di-Pertuan Agong) discretion. Anwar explained that his role was to offer his legal and constitutional perspective, while the Agong held the authority to consider all relevant factors during the FTFB meeting.
He emphasized that the Agong must take into account the many cases of corruption currently being addressed and highlighted the Agong's emphasis on stricter enforcement of Tabung Haji and Felda-related matters. When asked about PAS Secretary-General Takiyuddin Hassan's demand for clarification on the deferral, Anwar reminded the party to understand the rules governing the pardons board before making such claims.
Anwar also pointed out that the matter should not be reduced to a personal issue involving Najib, citing other corruption cases still under prosecution. Anwar acknowledged the political considerations surrounding Najib's case, including strong opinions from Umno leaders, but reiterated that his position was guided by the rule of law and the Federal Constitution.
Najib Razak, convicted of misappropriating RM42 million and sentenced to 12 years in prison, is currently serving his sentence at Kajang prison. In December 2025, he was additionally convicted of abuse of power and money laundering involving over RM2 billion, resulting in a 15-year sentence and a RM11.38 billion fine. He is currently appealing this conviction.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Decision to defer Najib’s pardon bid is Agong’s prerogative, says PM freemalaysiatoday.com
