Renewed calls follow reports fugitive financier seeking pardon from US President Donald Trump over 1MDB scandal
PETALING JAYA: Legal experts have urged Malaysia to formally object to any move to grant a pardon to fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho in the United States (US), following reports that he is seeking clemency from US President Donald Trump over his alleged role in the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal.
Former Malaysian Bar president Salim Bashir said any approval of the pardon request could result in criminal charges against Low Taek Jho in the US being dropped.
“Although a US presidential pardon would not affect ongoing investigations or trials in Malaysia or other jurisdictions, it could still have significant legal and practical implications, particularly if the fugitive were to remain abroad without facing prosecution.”
Salim added that while US presidents are not bound by objections from foreign governments, Malaysia should nevertheless formally register its protest through the Attorney General’s Chambers to the US Department of Justice.
“We should still express our objections and displeasure on Jho Low’s pardon application due to his involvement in the biggest financial fraud that shook the world, and him being a fugitive Malaysian pursued by Malaysian authorities.
“The US pardon power should not be used to subvert the rule of law in bringing Jho Low to justice for the mega financial fraud in world history.”
Salim also stressed that while US clemency would not impact Malaysian proceedings, it could potentially complicate extradition efforts if Jho Low remains outside Malaysia without facing active charges in the US.
He said fugitives accused of crimes in their home country should be brought back to face trial, regardless of developments in other jurisdictions.
Lawyer Datuk Baljit Singh Sidhu said Jho Low’s reported attempt to seek a pardon from Donald Trump makes a mockery of the 1MDB situation and sends the wrong message from the US to the rest of the world.
“It risks creating the perception that financial crimes involving billions can eventually be negotiated away through political influence and connections.
“Such a move would undermine global efforts to uphold accountability, transparency and the rule of law.”
Baljit added that the 1MDB scandal was not only a Malaysian issue but also one with international implications involving financial institutions, regulatory systems and public trust across multiple countries.
“Any attempt to circumvent justice through political lobbying diminishes the seriousness of the offence and disrespects the efforts of enforcement agencies worldwide.”
He said such an approach may damage the credibility of institutions that claim to champion anti corruption and good governance.
“Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done fairly and consistently, regardless of wealth or influence.
“In my view, this exercise by Jho Low to reach out to the White House appears futile and inappropriate, particularly when many unanswered questions surrounding the 1MDB scandal still remain.
