KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 2 – Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak testified as the first defence witness in the RM2.28 billion (S$690 million) 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) graft trial at the High Court.
Najib’s lead counsel, Tan Sri Shafee Abdullah, informed Justice Collin Lawrence Sequerah that Najib requested to personally read his extensive 525-page witness statement, which has been divided into two volumes due to its length.
“This is his instruction to me. He believes reading the statement aloud will help him register it better,” said Mr. Shafee.
Challenges in Preparing Defence
Mr. Shafee explained the defence team had just one month to finalize the statement after the High Court ordered Najib to enter his defence on Oct 30. The team faced logistical hurdles, including restricted access to Najib, who is serving a prison sentence.
“It’s challenging to work in a prison setting. Documents had to be left with him overnight for review,” said Mr. Shafee, noting that Najib remained actively involved in the case preparation.
Justice Sequerah praised the defence team’s efforts, allowing Najib to read the statement while urging him to proceed at an accelerated pace. Mr. Shafee responded that Najib, known for his oratory skills, would manage the pace.
Charges and Potential Penalties
Najib faces four counts of abuse of power for allegedly obtaining RM2.28 billion in gratification from 1MDB funds between February 2011 and December 2014. Additionally, he is charged with 21 counts of money laundering involving the same sum, reportedly committed between March and August 2013.
The charges fall under Malaysia’s Anti-Corruption Commission Act, carrying penalties of up to 20 years’ imprisonment and a fine of either five times the gratification amount or RM10,000, whichever is higher.
Trial Progresses
The trial continues with Najib reading his witness statement in court.