Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak is taking steps to fulfil the conditions required for him to move from prison to house arrest, but the payment of a RM50 million ($12 million) fine remains a major requirement before the transfer can take place.
Najib’s legal team said on September 20 that he is seeking advice and reviewing available options to comply with the conditions attached to the conditional pardon granted by Malaysia’s King. The lawyers also highlighted difficulties arising from government restrictions on a significant portion of his assets, bank accounts and properties.
RM50 Million Fine Required Before House Arrest
Najib’s conditional pardon permits him to serve the remainder of his prison sentence at home until August 23, 2028. However, the arrangement is subject to specific conditions, including payment of the RM50 million fine.
His lawyers said a substantial amount of his assets remains affected by freezing orders and government enforcement proceedings. As a result, they said, the former prime minister does not have complete control over those assets and is considering how the financial condition can be fulfilled.
Until the required payment is made and the other conditions are satisfied, Najib will remain at Kajang Prison. Authorities have also indicated that the house-arrest arrangement cannot proceed until the relevant formal documentation is received through official channels.
Malaysia Prepares for Possible House Arrest
Malaysia’s King, Sultan Ibrahim, granted Najib a conditional pardon on September 18, allowing him to serve the remaining portion of his sentence under house arrest. The decision was made by the Federal Territories Pardons Board during its 64th meeting.
Authorities have said that failure to meet the conditions could result in the conditional pardon being revoked, requiring Najib to continue serving his sentence in prison.
The Prisons Department is still awaiting official written notification before taking further action. Meanwhile, procedures for implementing the house-arrest arrangement are expected to cover areas such as security, permitted visitors and monitoring of Najib’s movements.
Najib Remains in Prison Until Conditions Are Met
Najib, who served as Malaysia’s prime minister from 2009 to 2018, has been imprisoned since August 2022 following his conviction in the SRC International case, which involved funds linked to the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal.
His original 12-year prison sentence and RM210 million fine were reduced in 2024 following a royal pardon, resulting in a six-year sentence and a RM50 million fine.
For now, Najib remains at Kajang Prison while his legal team examines the conditions attached to the latest pardon. His lawyers have also expressed appreciation for the support he has received, while stressing that supporters should not feel compelled to provide financial assistance.
The timing of his transfer to house arrest will depend on the fulfilment of the stated conditions and completion of the required official procedures.
