KUALA LUMPUR, February 2 — The Federal Territories Pardons Board has announced a significant reduction in the jail term of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak. His original 12-year sentence has been halved to six years, raising the possibility of an early release on August 23, 2028. Additionally, the board disclosed a substantial reduction in Najib’s fine, decreasing from RM210 million to RM50 million. However, this potential early release is contingent upon the full payment of the specified fine.
Failure to settle the amount will result in a delayed release, extending Najib’s imprisonment until August 23, 2029. The decision was reached during the 61st session of the Pardon Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya, which concluded on January 29, 2024. Chaired by His Majesty Seri Paduka Baginda Al-Sultan Abdullah Riayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Haii Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah, the board assessed five (5) clemency petitions, including the one filed by YBhg. Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak.
Following a thorough review and consultation, the Pardon Board opted for a 50 percent reduction in both the sentence and fine imposed on YBhg. Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak. Consequently, the former prime minister is slated for early release on August 23, 2028, with the fine lowered to RM50,000,000.00. The board emphasizes that failure to settle the fine will lead to an additional one-year imprisonment, pushing Najib’s release date to August 23, 2029.
