AZAM BAKI PRAISES 1MDB INVESTIGATION, PROSECUTION TEAMS

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 26 (Bernama) -- Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki, today expressed his appreciation to the investigation officers and prosecution team involved in the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) case.

In a statement, Azam extended his gratitude following the  conviction of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who was found guilty of four charges of abuse of power and 21 charges of money laundering involving RM2.3 billion in 1MDB funds.

"I would like to extend my highest appreciation and congratulations to the investigation officers and prosecution team who have worked tirelessly since the 1MDB investigation began in July 2015 until today’s judgment," he said.

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He acknowledged the extraordinary dedication of the officers, particularly in gathering evidence and testimony both domestically and internationally.

Despite facing significant legal, technical, and jurisdictional challenges, Azam emphasised that the investigation team remained determined to meet strict legal standards to bring the case to trial.

Azam also acknowledged the vital cooperation of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) during the investigation.

He highlighted the importance of international cooperation, with agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), and others contributing crucial support through cross-border evidence gathering.

He expressed his gratitude to the International Anti-Corruption Coordination Centre (IACCC) in the UK, the Swiss Attorney General’s Office, Singapore's Commercial Affairs Department, and relevant authorities from the Netherlands and Barbados for their professional collaboration.

Azam added that the outcome of this case should not be seen as a moment of celebration but rather as a fulfilment of MACC’s duty to uphold the law, in line with the trust and responsibility placed upon the agency.

“Our commitment remains to enforce the rule of law impartially, guided by facts, evidence, and the public interest,” he said.

Najib, 72, was convicted on four counts of abuse of power and 21 counts of money laundering involving RM2.3 billion from 1MDB.

The verdict was delivered by Justice Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah, who had previously presided over the 1MDB trial at the High Court, before his elevation to the Federal Court.

Justice Sequerah ruled that the prosecution had successfully proven all 25 charges against Najib beyond a reasonable doubt.

Najib was charged with using his position to obtain RM2.3 billion in bribes from 1MDB funds via the AmIslamic Bank Berhad branch at Jalan Raja Chulan between Feb 24, 2011, and Dec 19, 2014.

For the 21 money laundering charges, Najib was accused of committing the offences at the same bank between March 22, 2013, and Aug 30, 2013, through transactions involving 1MDB funds.

-- BERNAMA