The National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJM) has firmly rejected allegations that the media was unfair in its reporting of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's SRC International Sdn Bhd case. This response came after remarks made by Najib’s lead counsel, Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, during a recent forum.
At the event titled “Media Townhall: Getting the Facts Right – The Untold Stories – 1MDB & Other Cases”, Shafee claimed that certain media outlets had omitted critical details about Najib’s appeals. Specifically, he alleged that the Federal Court used Najib’s written submissions from the Court of Appeal stage, implying biased reporting might undermine justice.
In a statement, NUJM president Farah Marshita addressed these accusations, emphasizing that media organizations, both mainstream and alternative, had extensively covered Najib’s SRC trial proceedings between 2018 and 2022. Platforms like Malaysiakini and The Edge provided live updates, ensuring transparency throughout the case.
“The NUJM views this accusation seriously,” Farah said. “These remarks create a negative perception of media professionals who have diligently reported on this case for years.”
NUJM: Media Should Not Be Scapegoated
The NUJM underlined the importance of respecting journalists’ roles in delivering accurate and objective reports. It urged critics to engage with stakeholders for clarity before making public statements that could harm the reputation of hardworking media personnel.
Farah reiterated that the media’s coverage adhered to professional standards, dismissing claims of unfair reporting. She stressed the need for all parties to support journalistic efforts rather than deflect criticism onto the press.
Key Events Leading to Najib’s Conviction
Najib’s appeal process faced intense scrutiny, both in court and in the public eye. The Federal Court, in April 2022, set dates for Najib’s final appeal hearing in August. Despite this, Najib’s defense team made several attempts to delay the proceedings.
Among these efforts was an application for UK lawyer Jonathan Laidlaw to join the legal team, which the High Court dismissed in July 2022. Later that month, Najib’s newly appointed lawyers sought a postponement of the appeal, citing inadequate preparation time. However, the Federal Court rejected these requests, insisting on sticking to the pre-determined schedule.
During the August 2022 hearing, Najib’s lawyer, Datuk Hisyam Teh Poh Teik, informed the court that he intended to rely on arguments from the earlier Court of Appeal stage. However, he later suggested filing fresh submissions—conditional upon a postponement, which the court declined.
Ultimately, the Federal Court upheld Najib’s conviction, sentencing him to a 12-year jail term and imposing a RM210 million fine. However, this year, the Federal Territories Pardons Board reduced the sentence to six years and a RM50 million fine.
Forum Sparks Fresh Debate Ahead of 1MDB Trial
Shafee’s comments come as Najib prepares to face his separate 1MDB trial, where he is accused of misappropriating RM2.28 billion. The trial is scheduled to resume on December 2, with Najib set to present his defense.
The NUJM has called for continued respect for journalistic integrity, reiterating that the media’s role is to inform the public with facts, not to serve as a scapegoat in legal or political controversies.
Information Source: Malay Mail
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