THE High Court has set June 11 as the date to rule on former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s application to drop three money laundering charges related to RM27 million in funds from SRC International Sdn Bhd.
The decision follows a request from the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) for more time to consider the representation submitted by Najib’s legal team. The request for additional time was made during case management proceedings on Tuesday.
“We are asking for a one-month extension to decide on the accused’s application,” said Deputy Public Prosecutor Mohd Ashrof Adrin Kamarul in court.
Najib’s lawyer, Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, objected to the delay, telling the court that the representation was first submitted on 31 July 2023 and has now been pending for nearly two years.
“Since then, we’ve received no response from the AGC. We are urging the court to make a decision, as this matter has been delayed for far too long,” Shafee said.
“We’re seeking a discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA). If the prosecution decides to charge him again later, that is within their right,” he added.
Judge K Muniandy allowed the prosecution’s request for an extension and fixed June 11 for further case management. The judge also ordered Najib to be present in court for the proceedings.
Najib, 71, was charged on 3 February 2019 with three counts of money laundering involving RM27 million allegedly received through his AmPrivate Banking accounts at AmIslamic Bank Berhad, Jalan Raja Chulan, on 8 July 2014.
The charges fall under Section 4(1)(a) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001, which carries a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment, a RM5 million fine, or both, upon conviction. - May 6, 2025
