No extra cost to taxpayers for Najib’s 24/7 home detention security, says home minister

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 12 - The security measures in place for former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's home detention do not impose any additional financial burden on the government, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail confirmed during Parliament's Minister's Question Time today. Speaking about the arrangement, Saifuddin revealed that Prisons Department officers are currently stationed at Najib's residence, working in three shifts with a continuous static police presence.

"Previously they were stationed at Kajang (Prison), and now they are assigned there. So, there are no extra costs," he affirmed, clarifying that the shift was simply a matter of redeploying existing personnel.

When questioned about whether Najib's entitlements as a former Prime Minister remain unchanged, Saifuddin explained that while his pension payments have ceased, he continues to enjoy other benefits outlined in the Federal Constitution, ministerial circulars, and the Members of Parliament (Remuneration) Act. These privileges are expected to remain intact unless the Prime Minister's Department makes a different decision.

Regarding Najib's daily routine at home and whether it would be supervised, Saifuddin stated that the specifics are yet to be determined as the home detention is still in its initial phase. Earlier in his testimony, Saifuddin informed Parliament that Najib would be required to participate in rehabilitative programs prescribed for him during his time at Kajang Prison.