Kuala Lumpur, El Sky News — A Malaysian court has rescheduled the crucial decision regarding whether former Prime Minister Najib Razak will be allowed to serve the remainder of his prison sentence under house arrest. The verdict is now set for December 22, 2025, moving forward from the original date of January 5, 2026.
Background of the Case
Najib Razak, aged 72, is currently serving a six-year prison sentence after being convicted of corruption and money laundering linked to the infamous 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal.
The house arrest request is based on a claimed “Titah Adendum” an alleged directive supposedly issued on January 29, 2024, by Malaysia’s former King (Yang di-Pertuan Agong XVI), which reportedly allows Najib to serve his sentence at home instead of in prison.
In early 2024, Najib’s sentence and fine were reduced (from 12 years to 6 years & from RM210 million to RM50 million). Following that, his legal team filed a judicial review to enforce the Titah Adendum.
Recent Legal Developments
On November 25, 2025, during a case management session led by Judge Alice Loke Yee Ching, Najib’s lawyers requested that the ruling date be brought forward. The court accepted the request and officially advanced the decision to December 22.
Representatives from the Attorney General’s Chambers, Shafee & Co (Najib’s legal team), and other relevant parties were present. Notably the prosecution did not object to the new date. If the court upholds the Titah Adendum, Najib may be transferred from Kajang Prison to his residence in Kuala Lumpur.
Significance & Public Reaction
This decision carries strong legal and political implications:
- The case is widely seen as a test of judicial independence in Malaysia.
- It raises questions about equal treatment under the law, especially for high-profile political figures.
- A ruling in favor of house arrest could set an important precedent for future legal cases involving former leaders.
Political observers, rights groups, and international media are closely monitoring the case. The decision could influence public trust in the justice system and shape Malaysia’s political landscape ahead of future elections.
