Agong's prerogative to decide on Najib pardon bid, says PM

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed that any decision regarding the deferment of former Prime Minister Najib Razak's pardon bid falls squarely within the constitutional authority of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

Anwar stated that his government's involvement was confined to presenting legal perspectives and recommendations to the palace, guided by advice from the attorney-general's office. He emphasised that the ultimate prerogative to grant, defer, or reject such applications remains the sole jurisdiction of the monarch under Malaysia's constitutional framework.

The clarification comes amid ongoing public discourse surrounding Najib's bid for a royal pardon. The former premier is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence following his conviction in connection with the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal.

Anwar's statement underscores the separation of powers between the executive and the institution of the monarchy in Malaysia's constitutional monarchy system. The Prime Minister's remarks suggest the government has discharged its advisory role and that the palace will make the final determination in due course.