The deferment of former Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s petition for a royal pardon was rooted strictly in the rule of law, constitutional requirements, and guidance from the Attorney General, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Anwar addressed the decision during a joint press conference with Malaysian media in Calicut on Monday, September 14, prior to concluding a working visit to India, as reported by Bernama.
Anwar Explains Role in Pardons Board Deferment
According to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, his participation in the Pardons Board deliberations remained bound by statutory boundaries and formal advice provided by the Attorney General. Explaining his stance to reporters, Anwar stated that any prime minister must voice perspectives strictly anchored in legal parameters, official guidance, and established rules.
Following the 63rd Pardons Board Meeting for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya held at Istana Negara on September 11, a statement released by the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department indicated that His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, agreed to postpone Najib’s request for a pardon until a subsequent session of the board.
Anwar emphasized that ultimate authority regarding clemency rests within the discretion of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. “The King must of course take all factors into consideration,” Anwar said during the press briefing in Calicut, noting that the decision should be assessed through the lens of national governance rather than through a personal lens.
Legal Precedent and 1MDB Conviction Context
Based on Bernama archives, the High Court handed down a 15-year prison term and an RM11.4 billion fine to Najib on December 26, 2025, following his conviction on four counts of abuse of power and 21 counts of money laundering involving RM2.3 billion linked to 1MDB.
Public attention intensified following revelations that the clemency application was slated for review, triggering widespread public discourse across Malaysia. Amid political considerations and firm views expressed by UMNO leaders, Anwar maintained that he chose a principled path aligned with the Federal Constitution.
“I know what the easy way is and what the difficult way is, but I chose the path I believe is right, following the principles of law and what we consider important in terms of the spirit of governance,” Anwar told the joint press conference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who decides on royal pardons in Malaysia?
The Yang di-Pertuan Agong holds the constitutional authority and discretion to grant pardons, acting in consultation with the Pardons Board, according to official government statements.
When was Najib Tun Razak convicted?
The High Court sentenced Najib on December 26, 2025, to 15 years in prison and fined him RM11.4 billion on charges tied to 1MDB funds, as reported by Bernama.
Why was the pardon petition deferred?
According to the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department, Sultan Ibrahim consented to deferring the petition to a later Pardons Board meeting following discussions at Istana Negara.
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