Transport Minister Loke's Resignation to Take Effect When Najib Imprisoned

Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook's resignation will take effect only when former prime minister Najib Razak enters prison to begin serving his sentence, according to statements made by the minister. Loke submitted his resignation in September following Najib's conditional pardon from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, which reduced his jail sentence and fine in connection with his 1MDB-related conviction. The timing of Loke's departure from the transport portfolio has been made conditional on Najib's incarceration, marking an unusual arrangement within Malaysia's political framework. The conditional pardon granted to Najib, who was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment and fined RM210 million in 2023, had sparked significant political reaction across the country. Loke's decision to tie his resignation to Najib's imprisonment reflects the deep political sensitivities surrounding the former premier's legal proceedings and their broader impact on Malaysia's governance landscape.