THE Kuala Lumpur High Court on Tuesday approved former prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s application to regain his passport, enabling him to travel to the United Kingdom next month for a medical check-up for pancreatic cancer and to visit his grandchildren.
Justice Noor Ruwena Md Nurdin allowed the 78-year-old Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman’s request, granting the passport for travel from December 8 until January 5, 2026. Muhyiddin had applied for the document on November 6, citing the need for a scheduled medical appointment at a London centre on December 17, and to maintain family ties abroad.
“The applicant had previously been allowed to obtain a passport by the Sessions Court in Kuala Lumpur, and the prosecution does not oppose the medical grounds. However, they do not agree to the issuance of a passport solely for family visits or leisure in Spain,” Justice Noor Ruwena said.
The court noted that Muhyiddin had booked flights to Madrid from December 20 to January 2, returning via Dubai with a five- to six-day transit. The judge criticised the lengthy transit, stating that a shorter alternative could have been arranged, and cautioned that pre-booking flights before court approval risked setting a precedent for future applications.
“Based on the evidence and judicial discretion, the application is allowed with the condition that the passport return period is shortened, beginning December 8, and must be returned to the court by January 5, 2026,” the judge added.
Muhyiddin’s lawyer, Datuk Amer Hamzah Arshad, emphasised the purpose of the travel was for treatment and family engagement, noting, “The applicant has no flight risk and is determined to clear his name through the judicial process.”
Deputy Public Prosecutor Mahadi Abdul Jumaat stated that while the prosecution did not object to the medical trip to the UK, they opposed travel for leisure in Madrid, warning it could lead to similar future requests.
Muhyiddin faces six charges, including allegations of misusing his position as Prime Minister to receive RM232.5 million in bribes and RM195 million from illegal activities linked to party funds, under the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001. Convictions carry potential jail terms of up to 20 years and substantial fines.
The High Court has scheduled the next management of the case for February 23, 2026, with Muhyiddin excused from attending. - November 18, 2025
