World

Malaysia Strikes Back: Gag Order Requested Amidst Najib Razak’s Controversial Legal Claims

2025-01-21

Author: Sarah

Introduction

In a dramatic twist within the Malaysian judiciary system, the Attorney General's chambers has moved to secure a gag order to prevent public discourse regarding former Prime Minister Najib Razak’s recent judicial review claim.

Background on Najib Razak

Currently serving time for his involvement in the infamous multi-billion dollar 1MDB scandal, Najib is endeavoring to force authorities to authenticate the so-called 'addendum order,' allegedly issued last year by the then-King Al-Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah.

Contention Surrounding the Addendum Order

The disclosure of this document has sent shockwaves throughout Malaysia, with Najib asserting that authorities have turned a blind eye to the former king’s order, particularly when they announced the reduction of his sentence last year.

Official Responses

Adding to the intrigue, a letter from the former king's palace confirmed the existence of the addendum order, yet the Malaysian law ministry has publicly stated that no record of this document can be found.

The Call for a Gag Order

In a recent update, Bernama reported Shamsul Bolhassan, deputy chief of the chambers' civil division, has confirmed that the request for the gag order has indeed been officially submitted to a court.

Najib's Legal Battles

Najib was convicted in 2020 for criminal breach of trust and abuse of power concerning funds siphoned from the state investment fund, 1Malaysia Development Berhad.

Conclusion and Implications

As Malaysians await the court's next move, the implications of Najib's claims and the push for a gag order resonate deeply within the country's political landscape.