A MEMBER of Parliament has called on the Attorney General to provide an immediate and public explanation following the prosecution’s decision to withdraw its appeal against the High Court’s acquittal of Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor in a high-profile money laundering and tax evasion case.
Tebrau MP Jimmy Puah Wee Tse expressed deep disappointment over the withdrawal but acknowledged that the decision falls within the legal powers granted under Article 145(3) of the Federal Constitution.
“However, this case involves a matter of very significant public interest, and it would have been more appropriate for the Court of Appeal to be allowed to make a final determination rather than having the appeal halted through withdrawal,” Puah said.
He added, “The Attorney General must step forward immediately to provide an open explanation regarding the reasons and considerations behind this decision.
“Transparency is crucial in this case to ensure public confidence in the judiciary and the national justice system is maintained, especially given the high-profile nature of the individual involved.”
The development comes after media reports on Thursday that the prosecution had formally withdrawn its appeal against the High Court decision which acquitted Rosmah Mansor of twelve charges of money laundering involving more than RM7 million, as well as five charges of failing to declare her income to the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN).
According to the Notice of Withdrawal of Appeal dated 9 December, the prosecution indicated that it no longer intends to proceed with the appeal against the entire High Court verdict.
The notice followed a prior intention to appeal lodged on 20 December of the previous year after dissatisfaction with the High Court’s ruling.
Correspondence from the Deputy Registrar of the Court of Appeal confirmed that the appeal hearing scheduled for 22 December has been vacated and that the appeal is considered null and void under Order 73 of the Court of Appeal Rules 1994.
The withdrawal has prompted calls from legal observers and members of parliament alike for the Attorney General to clarify the rationale behind this sudden change in prosecutorial strategy, emphasising the need for transparency in cases of significant public interest. - December 12, 2025
