1MDB debt in 2026: RM42.5b paid, but RM20.1b still remains

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 22 — Malaysian authorities estimate that the government's financial burden connected to 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) stands at RM20.1 billion as of 2026, provided no additional fund or asset recovery occurs. The Ministry of Finance (MOF) reveals that this sum constitutes the total financial responsibilities related to 1MDB, amounting to RM51.4 billion, after subtracting RM31.3 billion from recovered funds and assets.

According to the MOF, the government has made payments totaling RM42.5 billion since assuming 1MDB's debt obligations and commitments in April 2017. This includes RM27.7 billion for principal payments and RM14.8 billion for interest and other commitments. Additionally, the government-guaranteed Islamic medium-term notes (IMTN) amount to RM8.9 billion, comprising RM5 billion in principal and RM3.9 billion in interest, which remains until the maturity date in 2039.

The ministry reaffirms its commitment to pursuing claims and asset recovery efforts related to 1MDB, emphasizing that criminal sentencing outcomes or pardons do not automatically terminate civil claims aimed at recovering misappropriated funds. The right of the government and 1MDB to pursue civil claims should be evaluated based on the grounds for the claims, the evidence, and court orders within those proceedings, while any asset forfeiture action adheres to the legal provisions governing such measures.

The government prioritizes maximizing fund recovery to settle 1MDB's obligations, minimize its financial burden, and protect the nation's interests.