Former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has defended his stepson, Riza Aziz, against allegations that funds used to finance Hollywood films were linked to the 1MDB scandal. Testifying in court, Najib emphasized that Riza's ventures were backed by legitimate loans from Abu Dhabi’s Aabar Investments PJS, rather than misappropriated funds.
Najib explained that the funds were arranged as a straightforward loan approved by Emirati royal Sheikh Mansour ibn Zayed Al Nahyan. He dismissed claims by the prosecution suggesting that Riza’s film projects were part of a money-laundering scheme. Najib also stated that Riza believed the funds were legitimate and would not have accepted them otherwise. Najib highlighted that Riza’s actions, including his repayment of a significant portion of the loan, demonstrated his belief in the money’s legitimacy. "He (Riza) knew it was straightforward, clean money, given by Aabar. And as a result of that, he makes movies. The movies made money,” Najib said at the RM2.28bil 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) trial.
Najib further addressed a separate controversy involving a private meeting he held with Saudi royal Prince Turki ibn Abdullah Al-Saud aboard a yacht during a family vacation in 2009. He explained that the meeting was informal and did not warrant the involvement of Malaysian government officials. “It was a personal holiday with my family. Bringing government officials would have been inappropriate and intrusive," Najib said.
The ongoing trial centers on Najib’s alleged misuse of RM2.28 billion in 1MDB funds. He faces multiple charges, including four counts of abusing his position for personal financial gain and 21 counts of money laundering.
Despite the allegations, Najib maintained that Riza’s ventures were financed through legitimate means. He highlighted that Riza had repaid a significant portion of the Aabar loan, further proving the legitimacy of the financial arrangement. Prosecutors, however, continue to assert that the funds were laundered through a complex scheme disguised as a loan.
As the trial proceeds, the case remains a key focal point in the ongoing investigation into the 1MDB scandal. Both sides are presenting evidence and arguments to support their claims, with Najib reiterating his position that the funds used for Riza’s Hollywood projects were above board.
Information Source: The Star
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