Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak remains on course to be tried for three money laundering charges involving RM27 million allegedly linked to SRC International, following a decision by the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) to reject a request for the charges to be dropped.
This was confirmed in the Kuala Lumpur High Court, where Deputy Public Prosecutor Mohd Ashrof Adrin Kamarul informed the bench that the prosecution would move forward with trial preparations. Najib, who had earlier pleaded not guilty to the charges on February 3, 2019, is accused of receiving funds through three AmPrivate Banking accounts at AmIslamic Bank on July 8, 2014.
These proceedings are distinct from Najib’s existing conviction for the misappropriation of RM42 million, also tied to SRC International. He is currently serving a prison sentence in connection with that earlier case.
The prosecution team has requested additional time to manage the trial, citing the significant volume of evidence and documentation involved. Prosecutors pointed out that many of the documents relate to intricate financial transactions that need detailed examination before proceedings can begin.
In court, Najib’s lead counsel, Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, pushed for a discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA), arguing that the lack of progress in the case over the past five years constitutes an unreasonable delay and compromises his client's right to a prompt and fair hearing.
Despite this request, the prosecution stood firm, stating that the AGC has issued instructions to continue with trial arrangements and did not consent to any form of discharge.
Justice K. Muniandy, who is presiding over the case, has set June 20 as the date to deliver his decision on whether the DNAA will be granted. The outcome will determine if Najib faces trial imminently or if the matter will remain in legal limbo.
This development adds to the legal challenges Najib continues to face as one of the country’s most scrutinized political figures. The court’s decision later this month could either mark a step toward resolving the long-standing case or contribute to its further delay, drawing more public attention to the slow pace of high-profile prosecutions in Malaysia.
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