Former Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has recently testified in the court, shedding light on his interactions with Low Taek Jho (Jho Low) during the 1MDB scandal. Addressing allegations about a pivotal US$1 billion (RM4.4 billion) transaction, Najib confirmed that he communicated with 1MDB chairman Tan Sri Mohd Bakke Salleh through Low's mobile phone, citing “convenience” as the reason.
Najib, who is currently on trial over claims of receiving RM2 billion in 1MDB funds into his personal accounts, admitted that the phone call in question occurred during a 1MDB board meeting on September 26, 2009. Although Low attended the meeting, Najib insisted that he was not invited at his request.
Why Use Jho Low’s Phone?
Deputy public prosecutor Mohamad Mustaffa P Kunyalam pressed Najib on why he didn’t directly contact Bakke using his own phone or Bakke’s personal number. Najib responded, “It is a matter of convenience, he [Low] handed [me the phone], I didn’t think there was anything wrong.”
When questioned if his decision to use Low's phone indicated a comfortable relationship, Najib denied any ulterior motive. He emphasized that at the time, he was unaware of Low’s alleged manipulations. "I didn’t think he was up to all the mischief at that time,” he remarked.
Leveraging Middle East Connections
Najib elaborated on his relationship with Low, claiming that he strategically used Low’s connections in the Middle East. “I didn’t want people to think I was beholden to him. I wanted people to think I was using him specifically for Middle East connections,” Najib said, admitting that he relied on Low’s network for advancing diplomatic and financial ties in the region.
Testimony from Bakke
Tan Sri Mohd Bakke Salleh, who testified earlier in the trial, recounted receiving the phone call from Najib via Low's mobile phone. According to Bakke, Low handed over the phone, stating, “PM on the line, want to speak to you.” Najib then instructed the 1MDB board to expedite a decision on the controversial US$1 billion deal, which the board subsequently approved.
Najib denied allegations that his phone call was intended to pressure the board into rushing the approval.
Jho Low’s Frequent Visits
During cross-examination, Najib confirmed that Low was a frequent visitor to his private residence and government offices, including the Defence Ministry, Finance Ministry, and the Prime Minister’s Office. Najib explained that Low's visits often involved interactions with his family, particularly his stepson, Riza Aziz.
“Yeah, there were times that he came, but not to say he was there all the time, tak ada lah [not really],” Najib said.
The Prosecution’s Stand
The prosecution alleges that Low, who is now a fugitive, acted as Najib’s “alter ego” in the management of 1MDB’s affairs. They argue that Low’s close involvement in the scandal underscores Najib’s complicity in the misuse of funds.
As the trial continues, the court will weigh Najib’s claims of convenience and strategic use of connections against mounting evidence linking him to Low and the 1MDB debacle.
Information Source: Malay Mail
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