Anwar, Royal Decree, Najib: Justice or Favoritism?

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, convicted in 2022 for corruption linked to the 1MDB scandal, was sentenced to 12 years in prison. In February 2024, Najib received a royal pardon from then-King Al-Sultan Abdullah, reducing his sentence to six years and lowering his fines. However, controversy erupted when Najib claimed that an additional royal decree allowed him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest.

The alleged decree, referred to as an “addendum order,” has not been enforced by authorities. Najib’s legal team claims that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s administration deliberately “hid” or ignored the order. This action has left Najib in legal limbo. The government and Attorney-General’s Chambers have so far avoided clarifying the decree’s existence or enforcement. Their silence fuels growing suspicions of political maneuvering.

Anwar Ibrahim has repeatedly claimed that he cannot comment on the matter as it is sub-judice (under judicial consideration). However, critics have pointed out Anwar’s inconsistency, noting that he has openly commented on other ongoing cases, such as corruption investigations involving opposition leader Muhyiddin Yassin. Anwar’s government has faced allegations of selective justice, with critics pointing to the swift closure or dismissal of cases involving his cabinet members.

For instance:

• Rafizi Ramli: The authorities dropped the corruption case against Rafizi shortly after Pakatan Harapan’s 2018 election victory. The timing led to accusations of political favoritism, given Rafizi’s key role in PH’s leadership.
• Ahmad Zahid Hamidi: After Anwar became Prime Minister in late 2022, Zahid, UMNO president and a crucial ally in Anwar’s coalition government, saw 47 charges of corruption and money laundering controversially dropped in 2023. The move triggered widespread criticism, as many perceived it as a trade-off for UMNO’s support in keeping Anwar’s government stable.

Legal team for Najib present letter confirming royal decree while Anwar cowers

In July 2024, the High Court dismissed Najib’s application to verify and enforce the alleged royal decree. However, in January 2025, the Court of Appeal granted Najib’s request to review the matter. This decision reopened the case for further deliberation. During the appeal, Najib’s lawyers presented a letter from the Pahang palace. The letter, dated January 4, 2025, confirmed the existence and legitimacy of the decree.

Sultan Ibrahim of Johor, the current Malaysian King, has added to the complexity by weighing in on the matter. Anwar stated that he referred the issue to the Sultan for deliberation. This statement implies that the King holds the final decision on Najib’s house arrest. Sultan Ibrahim recently called for judicial transparency and impartiality. Many interpret his comments as indirect criticism of the Najib controversy and broader governance issues.

The case now returns to the High Court. The contrasting handling of cases involving opposition figures and Anwar’s political allies has intensified scrutiny of his administration. Whether the courts will allow Najib to serve his sentence at home, as allegedly decreed by the former King, remains a contentious issue. The outcome will shape perceptions of justice, political neutrality, and the role of royal influence in Malaysia’s governance.