A Malaysian court has found former prime minister Najib Razak guilty of abuse of power in the largest trial linked to the 1MDB financial scandal. The ruling marks a major development in the multibillion-dollar case that has shaken Malaysia’s political landscape for years. The judge delivered the decision on Friday, while sentencing and the full verdict details are still pending.
Investigators from Malaysia and the United States have stated that at least $4.5 billion was misappropriated from 1Malaysia Development Berhad. More than $1 billion allegedly moved into accounts linked to Najib during his time in office. Najib has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings.
Najib faces four counts of corruption and 21 counts of money laundering related to the receipt of over 2.3 billion ringgit from 1MDB. The court rejected claims that the charges were politically motivated. The judge stated that clear and compelling evidence showed Najib abused his powerful position and exercised extensive control over the fund.
During the verdict reading, the court dismissed Najib’s defense that the funds were legitimate donations from Saudi royalty. The judge ruled that documents supporting the donation claim lacked verification and were likely forged. The court concluded that the funds originated directly from 1MDB, not foreign benefactors.
The ruling also highlighted Najib’s close relationship with fugitive financier Jho Low. The judge described Low as Najib’s proxy and intermediary in 1MDB dealings. Evidence presented showed a consistent and direct connection between the two figures throughout the fund’s operations. Low has denied wrongdoing and remains at large.
Najib has been imprisoned since August 2022 after a previous corruption conviction was upheld. His original 12-year sentence was later reduced by a pardons board. However, in this case, he could face between 15 and 20 years in prison for each charge, along with heavy financial penalties.
The verdict arrives amid political sensitivity for the current government. Najib’s party joined the ruling coalition after the 2022 election, despite campaigning against it earlier. Recent court decisions denying Najib house arrest have reignited tensions within the coalition.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged calm and respect for judicial outcomes. He called on all sides to accept the verdict with patience and wisdom. The case remains a defining test for Malaysia’s justice system and its commitment to accountability.
