PM Anwar Affirms Anti-Corruption Stance Remains Firm Following Najib’s Conditional Pardon

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 18 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has assured that the conditional pardon allowing former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest does not weaken the government’s resolve to combat corruption and abuse of power.

Speaking to reporters after performing Friday prayers at Surau Nur Perdana in Precinct 10 today, Anwar emphasized that all ongoing legal proceedings involving Najib, as well as other corruption cases, must proceed strictly in accordance with the law.

“As Prime Minister, my duty is to provide advice on the legal implications, national stability and the principle of the rule of law, while also taking into account the Attorney General’s detailed written advice,” Anwar said. “But ultimately, the Constitution provides for the powers of His Majesty the King, and I hope we can accept the decision.”

Anwar stressed that Malaysia must maintain an uncompromising position against financial malfeasance, calling for broad public support to ensure that misconduct and self-enrichment by leaders are never taken lightly. He added that national stability depends on safeguarding the rule of law for all citizens.

“The same applies to other corruption cases. This country must be saved, and we need firmness with the support of all Malaysians to ensure the law is no longer taken lightly when there is misconduct or abuse of power to enrich any leader or individual. This is our stance,” he stated.

When asked whether specific standard operating procedures (SOPs) were required to govern house arrest execution, the Prime Minister clarified that administrative details fall under the jurisdiction of the Home Ministry.

The Prime Minister’s remarks follow the decision by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, to grant Najib a conditional pardon following the 64th meeting of the Federal Territories Pardons Board at Istana Negara today. Under the decision announced by the Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister’s Department, Najib will serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until Aug 23, 2028, subject to paying an RM50 million fine.

–NMT