THE final stage of the judicial proceedings in the high-profile case against former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak over the alleged misappropriation of RM2.3 billion from 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) is scheduled to conclude this afternoon.
The reading of the judgment had been temporarily adjourned earlier to allow Najib and court officials to perform Friday prayers.
The judgment which began to be read at 9.17 am, was paused at 12.15 pm, and will resume at 3pm with authorities and media outlets, including TV3, providing continuous updates on the proceedings.
If Najib is found guilty, the prosecution may seek for the prison sentences in this case to run separately from the jail term he is currently serving for misappropriation of RM42 million linked to SRC International Sdn Bhd.
Najib faces four charges of abusing his position for gratification under Section 23(1) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act (SPRM), punishable under Section 24(1) of the same law. Each charge carries a potential maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to five times the value of the bribe or RM10,000, whichever is higher.
In addition, he faces 21 charges of money laundering under Section 4(1)(a) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (AMLATFA), each carrying a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to RM5 million, or both, if convicted.
The case marks one of the most closely watched legal battles in Malaysia’s history, with potential ramifications for Najib’s political future and ongoing efforts to recover misappropriated 1MDB funds. - December 26, 2025
