Tensions within the unity government have resurfaced following strong reactions from Umno and PKR leaders to comments made by DAP’s Yeo Bee Yin after the High Court rejected Najib Razak’s application to serve the remainder of his jail term under house arrest.
Yeo, who serves as DAP’s publicity secretary, came under fire after posting a remark that appeared to celebrate the court’s decision. Her reaction quickly drew criticism from political allies, with several leaders describing her tone as inappropriate and divisive at a sensitive moment.
Negeri Sembilan Umno chief Jalaluddin Alias was among the most outspoken, urging Yeo to exercise restraint and political maturity. He argued that publicly rejoicing over another individual’s legal setback ran contrary to the values of moderation and compassion promoted under the Madani framework. According to him, such remarks risk deepening divisions and undermining efforts to maintain national cohesion within the unity administration.
Jalaluddin also cautioned against what he described as politics rooted in hostility, saying elected representatives should focus on serving the public rather than scoring political points by highlighting the misfortune of others. He stressed that unity partners must be mindful of their words, particularly when dealing with issues that remain emotionally charged among the public.
Criticism also came from Umno secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, who characterised Yeo’s response as insensitive and lacking empathy. He suggested that such attitudes failed to recognise the contributions and sacrifices made by coalition partners, adding that continued disregard could prompt Umno to reassess its cooperation with allies who do not share the same sense of respect.
Adding to the chorus of disapproval, PKR’s Syed Ahmad Syed Abdul Rahman Alhadad, better known as Altimet, described Yeo’s remarks as inappropriate and unnecessary. The Lembah Jaya assemblyman said expressions that appeared to mock or celebrate judicial outcomes involving imprisonment were unhelpful and reflected poorly on leaders within the unity government.
The backlash followed the Kuala Lumpur High Court’s decision to dismiss Najib’s bid for house arrest. The court ruled that there was no legal framework to implement such an arrangement, effectively keeping the former prime minister in Kajang Prison.
Najib, now 72, has been incarcerated since August 2022 after being convicted over the misappropriation of RM42 million linked to SRC International. His original sentence was reduced to six years, but the court’s latest ruling closed the door on serving the remainder of that term at home.
The episode has highlighted lingering sensitivities within the ruling coalition, with observers noting that differing reactions to Najib’s legal battles continue to test unity and discipline among government partners.
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