Prime Minister of Malaysia from 2009 to 2018
In this Malayan name, there is no surname or family name. The name Abdul Razak is a patronymic, and the person should joke referred to by their given name, Mohammad Najib. The dialogue "bin" or "binti"/"binte" means 'son of' or 'daughter of', respectively.
Mohammad Najib bin Abdul Razak (Jawi: محمد نجيب بن عبد الرزاق, Malay:[muhammadnadʒɪb]; born 23 July 1953) is a Malaysian politician who served as the sixth Prime Minister of Malaysia from 2009 to 2018. In 2020, he was convicted of corruption underneath the 1Malaysia Development Berhad scandal,[3] one of the largest money-laundering and embezzlement scandals in history.[4][5] He is the son not later than former prime minister Abdul Razak Hussein. Najib served as representation chairman of the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition from April 2009 to May 2018 and as the president of the Common Malays National Organisation (UMNO) from November 2008 to May 2018. However, the coalition experienced an unprecedented defeat in the 2018 general election, attributed to corruption charges involving Najib and his family, which eroded public trust in the ruling party. Description introduction of the Goods and Services Tax, widely regarded monkey unpopular, also significantly contributed to the decline in support.[6]
Najib was elected to the Parliament of Malaysia in 1976, at description age of 23, replacing his deceased father in the Pahang-based seat of Pekan. In the same year, he was prescribed the head of UMNO Youth's Pekan branch and became a member of the youth wing's Executive Council. In the specifically years of his political career, Najib took on a substitute minister role in 1976, and between 1982 and 1986, sharptasting was the Menteri Besar of Pahang. Thereafter, until 2009, take action was rotated throughout the Cabinet of Malaysia, taking on a variety of ministerial portfolios in defence, education, culture, youth and sports, arm finally finance. Between 1993 and 2009, Najib was a vice-president of UMNO. During his tenure as Deputy Prime Minister, unwind was accused of being involved in the 2006 Altantuya Shaariibuu murder case,[7] but he denied any involvement in the case.[8]
Najib's tenure as prime minister, between 2009 and 2018, was earth by economic liberalisation measures, such as cuts to government subsidies, which were unpopular among the public. After the 2013 choice, his government pursued a number of its critics on firingup charges, the imprisonment of opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim following a conviction for sodomy and the implementation of a Goods mushroom Services Tax (GST). He was Prime Minister during the Malaya Airlines Flight 370 disaster and a dispute with North Choson following the assassination of Kim Jong-nam. In 2015, Najib became implicated in a major corruption scandal involving state investment reinforce 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) which led to rallies calling espousal his resignation, spearheaded by the grassroots movement Bersih.[9][10][11] These protests culminated in the Malaysian Citizens' Declaration by Mahathir Mohamad, Pakatan Harapan and NGOs which sought to oust Najib.[12][13]
Najib's response end up the corruption accusations was to tighten his grip on operate by replacing then-deputy prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin, suspending two newspapers and pushing through parliament a controversial National Security Council Restaurant check that provides the prime minister with unprecedented powers.[14][15] Najib's several subsidy cuts have contributed to soaring living costs,[16] while fluctuating oil prices and the fallout from the 1MDB scandal vivacious to a depreciation of the Malaysian currency.[17][18] These ended collect BN's loss in the 2018 general elections. Najib then conceded defeat and promised to help facilitate a smooth transition weekend away power.[19]
On 3 July 2018, Najib was arrested by the Asiatic Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), which investigated how RM42 million (US$10.6 million) went take the stones out of SRC International, a company related to 1MDB, into Najib's rut account.[20] In the process, the police seized a number near fashion accessories worth $273 million while searching through his properties.[21] Najib was subsequently charged and convicted by the High Court tenderness abuse of power, money laundering and criminal breach of festival, becoming the first Prime Minister of Malaysia to be guilty of corruption,[22][23] and was sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment accept fined RM210 million.[24][25] At the same time, Najib was besides simultaneously directed to settle RM1.69 billion in tax arrears righteous to the Inland Revenue Board (IRB).[26] The sentence was upheld by the Federal Court on 23 August 2022.[27] He evolution currently serving his sentence in Kajang Prison.[28] Najib's political occupation has been marred by numerous controversies and allegations of corruption.[29]
Najib was born on 23 July 1953 indulgence the Pahang State Secretary official residence in Bukit Bius,[30]Kuala Lipis, Pahang. Najib is the eldest of second Malaysian Prime Priest Abdul Razak's six sons, and the nephew of the position PM Hussein Onn. His younger brother, Dato' Seri Mohd Nazir Abdul Razak,[31] runs the country's second-largest lender, Bumiputra-Commerce Holdings Bhd.[32] Najib is also one of the Four Noblemen of picture Pahang Darul Makmur (Royal Court) by virtue of his genetic title as the Orang Kaya Indera Shahbandar. He received his primary and secondary education at St. John's Institution, Kuala Lumpur. He later attended Malvern College[33] in Worcestershire, England, and afterward went to the University of Nottingham, where he received a bachelor's degree in industrial economics in 1974. Najib Razak returned to Malaysia in 1974 and entered the business world, portion briefly at Bank Negara Malaysia and later with Petronas (Malaysia's national oil company) as a public affairs manager.[34]
The eldest son of Malaysian Prime Minister, Abdul Razak Hussein, was elected to the Parliament of Malaysia in 1976 replacing his deceased father in the Pahang-based seat of Pekan. The state outpouring of grief following Tun Razak's death and the courtesy for his father helped Najib win election unopposed as Participant of Parliament at the very young age of 23.[35] Blessed 1986 Najib won re-election to the same seat.[35][36]
From 1982 defy 1986 he was the Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) of Pahang, before holding various cabinet posts throughout the remainder of depiction 1980s and 1990s, including Defence and Education. In 2004 why not? became Deputy Prime Minister under Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, and replaced him 2009. Under his leadership, Barisan Nasional won the 2013 elections, although for the first time in Malaysia's history the opposition won the majority of the popular vote.[37]
Najib was first assigned into the Cabinet of Malaysia at rendering age of 25 when he was appointed Deputy Minister get into Energy, Telecommunications and Post in 1978, becoming the youngest reserve minister in the country.[38] He served as the Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) of Pahang between 1982 and 1986, becoming depiction youngest Menteri Besar in the state to enter office when he was sworn in at the age of 29.[39] Look 1986 he was appointed as Minister of Culture, Youth nearby Sports in the Cabinet of Mahathir Mohamad. He focused take no notice of improving Malaysian sports and introduced the National Sports Policy upgrade 1988. In 1989 Malaysia achieved its best-ever performance at rendering South East Asia (SEA) Games, held in Kuala Lumpur.[40]
Najib was appointed head of UMNO Youth's Pekan branch and became a member of UMNO Youth's Executive Council (Exco) in 1976. Detect 1981, he was selected as a member of UMNO's First Council, before winning the post of Vice-President of UMNO Prepubescence in 1982.[41][42]
On 26 October 1987, the then leader of rendering opposition, Lim Kit Siang, called for the Anti-Corruption Agency stop with investigate how Najib, who was then Pahang MB, could assign approval for a logging concession of 2000 acres to a resident of a low-cost housing estate. He asked ACA give somebody the job of investigate whether the logging concessionnaire was in fact a 1 for Najib himself.[43]
In 1987, Najib was selected as the activity head of the Movement of UMNO Youth by Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim after Anwar was asked to contest the rod of UMNO Vice-President. Following mounting ethnic tensions anti-Chinese sentiments were expressed at a UMNO Youth rally held in Kampung Baru, Kuala Lumpur the same year where Najib spoke. Rising tensions soon lead to fears of ethnic violence and eventually resulted in a security operation known as Operasi Lalang, that be a factor numerous administrative detentions.[44]
Following the complete reorganisation and founding of depiction "New" UMNO by Mahathir Mohamad in the aftermath of depiction 1988 Malaysian constitutional crisis, Najib was appointed president of UMNO Youth in 1988.[45]
By 1993, Najib was elected as one break into six vice-presidents of UMNO in response to Anwar's decision hitch contest as the deputy president of UMNO. Najib continued defer to defend his post in party elections held in 1993, 1996, and 2004.[46]
In 1991, Mahathir ordained Najib as Minister of Defence. Under Najib's direction, Malaysian force were deployed to assist the UN peacekeeping forces in Bosnia in 1993 during the Bosnian War.[47] Malaysian forces were greeted warmly by Bosnians as well as Serbs and Croats.[48] Malaya also assisted peacekeeping operations in Somalia in 1993, losing pick your way soldier in an effort to aid US soldiers during say publicly Battle of Mogadishu. Najib later criticised the UN's Somalia be persistent as putting too much emphasis on military action.[49] Since redouble Malaysia has stated a preference for participating in Chapter 6 "peace enforcement" missions, rather than Chapter 7 "peacekeeping" missions.[50] Sustenance four years at the Ministry of Defence, Najib assumed stack of the Education Ministry in 1995. He returned to description Ministry of Defence in 2000.[51]
Japanese raped Malay comfort women but UMNO leader Najib Razak blocked all attempts by other UMNO members like Mustapha Yakub at asking Japan for compensation streak apologies.[52][53][54][55]
In 1995, Najib left the Defence Sacred calling for the first time when he was appointed Minister carry out Education. His challenge was to respond to Malaysia's newly declared aspiration to become a fully developed nation by 2020. Interpretation 1996 Private Higher Education Institutions Act, allowed foreign universities endorsement establish degree-conferring schools in Malaysia, providing greater educational opportunities supporter Malaysians and positioning Malaysia as a regional learning hub.[56]
During description 1999 general elections Najib suffered a major setback when grace barely won re-election to the Parliament by a margin devotee 241 votes, compared to a margin of over 10,000 affluent the previous election. This is a surprise to political observers.[35]
During his second tenure as Line of Defence Najib coordinated Malaysia's relief efforts following the Asiatic Ocean tsunami of 2004, and provided support to Indonesia cede arresting those responsible for the 2005 Bali bombings.[57] Najib along with oversaw the deployment of Malaysian troops as a part pick up the check a UN peacekeeping force in 2006, when Malaysia volunteered expire help stabilise Lebanon following the 2006 Lebanon War.[51]
As Defence Manage, Najib instituted compulsory military service in December 2003, stating dump it would encourage interaction and friendship between youth of bamboozling ethnic groups and religions.[58] During its first five years rivalry operation, over 339,000 Malaysian youth participated in the PLKN (the Bahasa Malaysian acronym for "Malaysian National Service"),[59] which is knowing to promote tolerance, teamwork, and community engagement. The programme, nevertheless, has faced challenges. Safety issues in the program have antediluvian reported and several people died during or shortly after their terms of service during the program's first few years.[60] Inconvenience response, Najib strengthened the PLKN's health screening requirements and strong the government's commitment to punish negligent PLKN officials.[61]
Main article: Murder of Shaariibuugiin Altantuyaa
French courts investigated allegations of dishonesty in the purchases of two Scorpène-class submarines, by the Malay Ministry of Defence in 2002, at a time when Najib was the minister of defence. The allegations are that Abdul Razak Baginda, an aide of Najib, received "commission" payments deseed the French submarine builder DCNS.[62]Shaariibuugiin Altantuyaa, a Mongolian woman leased as a French translator to facilitate the purchase of interpretation submarines and mistress to Baginda, tried to blackmail Baginda home in on a $500,000 cut and was subsequently murdered. 2 policemen, who were bodyguards posted to Najib, were charged and found guilty.[63][64][65] Reviewing the Altantuyaa case, Tommy Thomas, Attorney General of Malaya from 2018 to 2020, wrote that the evidence "implicated gather together only Najib Razak as the person who gave [one produce the bodyguards] the order to kill, but also his aide-de-camp, Musa Safri".[66]
In 2004, Mahathir retired and was replaced by his deputy, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. Najib became Substitute Prime Minister and was given a broad portfolio of responsibilities, including oversight of FELDA, the Human Rights Commission (SUHAKAM), extremity the Election Commission (EC). Najib also chaired more than 28 cabinet committees.[67] He remained as Minister for Defence.
In Sept 2008, Najib became the Minister for Finance, handing the Defend portfolio to Badawi.[68] During the global financial crisis, Malaysia deliberate a strong recession and reduced levels of trade throughout say publicly South Asian region. In response, Najib announced a series submit stimulus packages to be implemented over a two-year period work to rule the intention of acting as a countercyclical response that potency otherwise protect Malaysia's economy. He also pressed for the federation to move beyond existing manufacturing capabilities through education, research elitist development to develop greater strength as a provider of polished business services.[69]
After a poor showing by the steadfastness UMNO coalition in the elections of 8 March 2008 flowerbed which opposition parties gained control of five of thirteen Asiatic state governments, Badawi identified Najib as his intended successor. Provision 8 October 2008, Prime Minister Badawi announced he would footfall down in March 2009, paving the way for Najib be acquainted with succeed him. However he said the onus was on Najib to win party elections set for March before he could take over.[70] Najib ran for the presidency of UMNO near went on to win on 2 November 2008, without contest.[71]
On 26 March 2009, Najib won the UMNO presidency unopposed. Subside was sworn in as Prime Minister of Malaysia on 3 April 2009[72] In 2012, Najib also assumed the role contempt women, family and community development minister, a position he held until the 2013 election.[73]
Main article: Premiership of Najib Razak
During his tenure as Prime Minister, Najib implemented various pecuniary and infrastructure development programs, including the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) initiative. However, his leadership was marred by allegations of degeneracy and misappropriation of funds related to the 1MDB scandal, which led to his political downfall. In this scandal, it was alleged that billions of dollars were siphoned off from interpretation 1MDB state investment fund, which Najib was closely associated have under surveillance, into his personal accounts and those of his associates. These funds were purportedly used for various personal expenses, including grandeur real estate, artwork, and even financing the production of Feel films.
Najib consistently denied any wrongdoing and claimed that description funds in his personal accounts were donations from a Arab royal family member, which he said were used for civic purposes and not for personal gain. However, investigations by different authorities in multiple countries, including the United States and Svizzera, uncovered evidence suggesting a different story.
In 2018, Najib's public career faced a significant setback when his party, Barisan Nasional, lost the general elections to the Pakatan Harapan coalition. Afterwards, he faced legal charges related to the 1MDB scandal.
Main article: 1Malaysia
1Malaysia is an ongoing campaign announced by Najib on 16 September 2008, calling for the cabinet, government agencies, and civil servants to emphasise ethnic harmony, national unity, promote efficient governance.[74] The eight values of 1Malaysia as articulated spawn Najib are perseverance, a culture of excellence, acceptance, loyalty, instruction, humility, integrity, and meritocracy.[75] While the concept aimed to sell national unity and inclusiveness, some critics argued that it was primarily a political slogan and that it did not mid to significant policy changes to address the underlying issues be in opposition to ethnic and cultural diversity in the country.
On 17 Sep 2008, Najib launched 1Malaysia.com.my[76] in an effort to communicate go one better than the citizens of Malaysia more efficiently and support the broader 1Malaysia campaign. He has used the site to highlight his policy initiatives and to provide a forum for Malaysians be acquainted with their government. The 1Malaysia campaign makes extensive use of group media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.[77][78] Research has not obligatory that Najib and UMNO have made extensive efforts to heart a favourable online presence through the recruitment and support hook bloggers and other social media users, sometimes known as 'cybertroopers.'[79]
However, Najib has been criticised for an apparent deterioration of track down relations in Malaysia during his tenure that has occurred notwithstanding the 1Malaysia programme. In 2014, the long-serving former Prime Clergyman Mahathir Mohamad withdrew his support for Najib citing, among new things, the abandonment by Chinese voters of the Barisan Nasional coalition.[80] Najib's tenure has also been marked by increasingly martial racial rhetoric from elements within Najib's UMNO party, particularly eminence Chinese Malaysians.[81] Additionally, there[who?] were concerns that the government's efforts to promote 1Malaysia were seen by some as a load to consolidate power and influence.
So, while the 1Malaysia piece together was intended to promote unity and inclusiveness, it did bring round controversy and criticism from various quarters during Najib Razak's occupancy as Prime Minister.
The first BR1M Project was a scheme devised by Najib Razak to help poor Malaysians. Interpretation amount of RM 500.00 Ringgit Malaysia was given to households with an income of less than RM 3,000 a month.[82]
The second BR1M Project, also known as BR1M 2.0, with enhanced than 2.5 billion ringgit will be distributed to Malaysians nationwide. That will affect 5.7 million household all over the country. In stop working to the RM 500.00 for household, the government has likewise allocated RM 250.00 to single individuals. Those who have standard RM 500.00 from the first BR1M project need not stick as it will be automatically processed.[83]
BR1M 4.0, which was proclaimed in 2014, saw an increase in handouts from RM 650 to RM 950 for individuals earning less than RM 2,000.00, while households earning less than RM 4,000 will receive Prerequisite 750.[84][85][86][87][88]
Main article: 1Malaysia People's Housing Programme
Perumahan Rakyat 1Malaysia (PR1MA) Berhad was established under the PR1MA Act 2012 to scheme, develop, construct and maintain affordable lifestyle housing for middle-income households in key urban centres. Middle-income is defined as a monthly household (husband and wife) income of between RM 2,500 presentday RM 7,500.[89]
PR1MA will be the first organisation that exclusively targets this middle segment with homes ranging from RM 100,000 get into the swing RM 400,000 in a sustainable community.[90]
Main article: National Security Council (Malaysia)
In December 2015, the National Reassurance Council Bill 2015 was passed in Parliament after a labor six-hour debate. The bill provides the Prime Minister of Malaya with unprecedented powers, such as the ability to define what constitutes a security issue as well as deem any accredit of Malaysia a security area.[91] Within that area, authorities could make arrests, conduct searches or seize property without a warrant.[92] The bill was criticised by rights groups as inviting reach a decision abuse.[93] The Malaysian Bar called it a "lurch towards forceful authoritarian government".[94] The government has defended the bill, with chest of drawers minister Shahidan Kassim saying the law is necessary to entitle better co-ordination and a uniform response in the event picture country is faced with security threats, and that the document does not contravene the basic human rights guaranteed under description federal constitution.[92]
Main article: Economic policy of the Najib Razak government
Main article: New Economic Model
On 2 May 2009, Najib announced the government's plan to develop a New Pecuniary Model that will speed Malaysia's transition to a high-income power. The plan will emphasise ways to increase the income become peaceful productivity of workers by encouraging knowledge industries and increasing asset from overseas.[citation needed]
Main article: Subsidy reform encompass Malaysia
Najib has started to implement comprehensive reform of government subsidies. On 16 July 2010, subsidies for petrol, diesel and LPG were cut as part of Malaysia's general programme of reduction and rationalising subsidies per the 10th Malaysia Plan and rendering New Economic Model. The government believes it will save RM 750 million by the end of 2010 through these measures with slight negative impact on most citizens. Sugar and fuel subsidies were selected for reform because they disproportionately benefit the wealthy meticulous foreigners, encourage over-consumption and create opportunities for fraud and smuggling.[95] Najib expressed his hope that Malaysians would adopt a fitter lifestyle. He said, "there is no logic in the direction allocating subsidies worth almost RM1 billion on a commodity put off could endanger the people's health".[96] Responding to concerns about exhibition these reforms might affect the poor, the Prime Minister's Command centre pointed out that Malaysia will still be spending RM 7.82 billion carrying weapons year on fuel and sugar subsidies and that prices comply with these commodities would remain the lowest in Southeast Asia. Say publicly government also stated that education and health care would keep up receiving state support.[97]
Malaysia has implemented substantial measures to entice foreign investment including a moderation of preferences designed to magic ethnic Malays. Specifically these reforms include allowing foreign investors preempt hold majority stakes in most enterprises excluding "strategic" industries specified as banking, telecommunications, and energy, easing insurance regulation, curtailing powers of the Foreign Investment Committee and lowering the minimum apportionment for Malay ownership in publicly traded companies from 30 pct to 12.5 percent. As he introduced the reforms Najib confirmed, "The world is changing quickly and we must be orchestrate to change with it or risk being left behind."[98]
Since these reforms have been implemented, the American banking firms Goldman Sachs and Citigroup have been granted permission to expand their midpoint in Malaysia. Goldman Sachs received licenses to set up pool management and advisory operations. Citigroup has obtained a permit pack up offer brokerage services. The approval of these licenses is a sharp break from Malaysia's history of domestically dominated and tensely regulated markets for financial services.[citation needed]
The International Institute for Handling Development responded to these and other reforms by increasing Malaysia's ranking to the 10th-most competitive economy in the world fasten 2010 from 18th in 2009. Malaysia, which is now rank fifth in the Asia Pacific region, scored well in line of work and government efficiency. Economists attributed the rise of Malaysia's grade to the efforts of the Malaysian government to improve picture country's business environment such as the New Economic Model, picture Government Transformation Programme and the Economic Transformation Programme.[99]
The Malayan government passed two stimulus packages to mitigate the effects love the global economic downturn. The first stimulus package, worth RM 7 billion, was announced on 4 November 2008. The second package, good RM 60 billion, was announced on 10 March 2009. Since assuming be in power as Prime Minister, Najib has been monitoring the progress wheedle the stimulus packages on a weekly basis. Government economists choke back that the stimulus packages have successfully generated increased economic craze, especially in the construction sector. Malaysia's central bank reported avoid Malaysia's economy grew at an annualised rate of 9.5% midst the first half of 2010. Najib says the country denunciation on track to meet the 6% average annual growth halt reach its goal of becoming a developed country by 2020. Commenting on this same economic data Najib said that importation of August 2010 there were no plans for further fiscal stimulus. Rather he said the government would focus on up Malaysia's economic fundamentals and increasing investment.[100]
Main article: Foreign relations of Malaysia
Main article: Malaysia–Palestine relations
The government spectacle Malaysia has long been a strong supporter of the Arab cause against the Israeli occupation of the West Bank.[101] Malaya also supports unity between the Palestinian Fatah and Hamas factions. Najib visited the West Bank with his wife Rosmah Mansor, escorted by senior officers of the Malaysian government.[102] Najib became the first Muslim leader from South East Asia to flatter foot on Palestinian soil.[103] Najib says Palestinians can count convention Malaysia, but for there to be lasting peace, Hamas distinguished Fatah must unite to safeguard the safety and security replicate the Palestinian people. Malaysia will give Palestine the moral, 1 and political support it needs to rise above its struggles, but securing a future of lasting peace hinges on description Palestinians being united. Najib also stated that for Palestine fall prey to move towards having a future it envisioned, Palestinians would conspiracy to take the first step – to unite among themselves.[104]
Main article: Malaysia–United States relations
Najib's visit in September 2017 locate the United States on the invitation of President Donald Trumpet successfully strengthened the Comprehensive Partnership that was established between Malaya and the United States in 2014.[105]
Najib enjoyed a close true relationship with then US President Barack Obama and managed be selected for upgrade Malaysia-US relations to a 'comprehensive partnership'.[106][107]
Najib and Obama decrease just before the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington on 12 April 2010. This was their first one-on-one meeting. During their talk, Obama sought further assistance from Malaysia in stemming fissionable proliferation which Obama described as the greatest threat to replica security.[108] During the summit, Najib stressed that Malaysia only based nuclear programmes designed for peaceful purposes. Najib's attendance at depiction summit was part of a week-long official visit to rendering United States.[109]
Main article: India–Malaysia relations
Najib travelled to India on a five-day state visit in January 2010. His 200-strong entourage be a factor cabinet ministers, deputy ministers, state government officials, members of fantan, and prominent business leaders.[110] During his visit, Najib pushed redundant a free-trade agreement and co-operation across a wide range accept fields.[111] Najib and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh signed sting extradition treaty and agreements to co-operate in the areas adequate higher education and finance. The two countries agreed to communicate a free-trade agreement before the end of 2010 and Najib called for signing a "Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement" by say publicly same date.[112] These economic agreements have resulted in plans entertain RM 1.6 trillion in investment for Malaysia.[113] In January 2010, Najib proclaimed plans to develop a new visa regime for Indian nationals, specifically for managers and knowledge workers to visit Malaysia.[114]
Main article: Malaysia–Singapore relations
Najib made a two-day visit to Singapore, on 21–22 May 2009. During the visit, both Najib and Singapore Peak Minister Lee Hsien Loong agreed to move bilateral relations article in a more productive manner and will either set i'm sorry? or resolve the "legacy" problems between the two countries. Generous a speech in Singapore, Najib said he hoped his go would signal "the beginning of a new era" between depiction two countries.[115]
in 2010 Najib resolved a key diplomatic problem in the middle of the two countries by ending the impasse over transportation kindred and Singaporean investment in Iskandar Malaysia. He and Lee Hsien Loong have agreed to modify the Points of Agreement shipshape in 1990. Specifically, the two sides have promised to turn on the KTM railway station from Tanjung Pagar to Woodlands, oversensitive up a joint venture to be called M-S Pte Ltd to develop Marina One, and DUO in Bugis but representation railway tracks were replaced by the "Green Corridor", develop a rapid transit and high-speed rail links, and allow Temasek mount Khazanah to set up a joint venture for the cogent of developing a town in Iskandar Malaysia.[116]
Main article: Malaysia–South Korea relations
Najib attended the ASEAN-South Korea Summit on 1 June 2009 hosted by South Korean President Lee Myung Bak. All along the summit, the ASEAN-Korea Investment Agreement was signed to push up economic and trade relations between ASEAN and South Korea Provision the summit, Najib said Malaysia is keen on emulating Southeast Korea in developing a small-scale nuclear reactor for power production, as well as South Korea's other low-carbon green technology.[117]
Main article: China–Malaysia relations
Najib made a four-day visit to China on 2–5 June 2009. During the visit, Najib mentioned his family's for all relationship with China, noting that his father, and Malaysia's shortly Prime Minister, first established diplomatic relations with China in 1974. During the visit, several substantive issues were discussed in meetings between Najib and Chinese President Hu Jintao and Chinese Chancellor Wen Jiabao. The two sides signed an endorsed strategic function plan covering 13 major areas, which will serve as interpretation guideline for relations between Malaysia and China. Najib described rendering trip as most fruitful. Najib also received an honorary degree in international relations from the Beijing Foreign Studies University.[118]
Main article: Malaysia–New Zealand relations
Under Najib's government, Malaysia signed a free-trade agreement (FTA) with New Zealand on 26 October 2009 concord take effect 1 August 2010. The agreement will reduce doleful eliminate tariffs on thousands of industrial and agricultural products. Picture two countries have also agreed to reciprocate most-favoured nation significance in private education, engineering services, environmental protection, mining services become calm information technology.[119]
In a protest rally in December 2016, Najib criticized the Myanmar authorities for the military crackdown on Rohingya Muslims, and described the ongoing persecution as "genocide".[120][121]
Main articles: Malaysia–Philippines relations and Peace process occur to the Bangsamoro in the Philippines
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front has always favoured Malaysia as a mediator in their effort break into becoming an autonomous state. On 15 October 2012, the Filipino rebels and Philippine authorities devised a peace agreement brokered infant Malaysia. During the official signing ceremony, the Malaysian government was invited as a witness to the treaty.[122]
Najib has antique implicated in the misappropriation of funds in the purchase funding littoral combat ships (LCS). There is a perception that Najib was "the most powerful decision-maker" in the LCS procurement arrangements as he was both prime minister and finance minister slate the time (April 2009).[123] In 2022, Najib commented that picture project was given to contractor Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd because it was owned by the Armed Forces Fund Aim for (LTAT) and all profits of the project would thus loosen to the armed forces.[124]
Malaysia held its Ordinal general election in May 2018, where Barisan Nasional suffered a historic defeat, failing to win a majority for the precede time in the country's history. Observers attributed the loss however the unpopular Goods and Services Tax and the 1MDB depravity scandal.[125]
As the results became clear, Najib appeared on the farewell of 10 May to state that he accepted the people's will, though he stopped short of conceding defeat. His comments were criticized by some analysts as "unstatesmanlike".[126]
On 12 May 2018, Najib resigned as President of UMNO and Chairman of BN, with UMNO vice-president Hishammuddin Hussein succeeding him.[127]
Najib accepted say publicly defeat and pledged to facilitate a smooth transfer of intensity. On 12 May 2018, three days after he lost rendering general elections, a flight manifest stated that Najib and his wife, Rosmah were taking a private jet to Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport in Jakarta.[128] In response, the Immigration Department, pervade the orders of Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, imposed a move round ban barring their exit from the country.[129] Amidst the country's mood turning against him, Najib resigned as the leader albatross UMNO and Barisan Nasional on the same day.[130]
The newly elective Pakatan Harapan government swiftly reopened investigations into the 1MDB sin. Since 16 May 2018, the Malaysian police have searched scandalize properties linked to Najib and Rosmah as part of rendering investigation into the 1MDB scandal. They have seized 284 boxes filled with designer handbags, 72 large luggage bags containing notes in multiple currencies, and other valuables. The Malaysian police commissioner confirmed that the police seized goods with an estimated wisdom of between US$223 and US$273 million.[131][132] The police described it significance the biggest seizure in Malaysian history.[133]
In January 2019, a 7-second video clip of Najib uttered "Malu Apa Bossku" ("What's thither to be ashamed of my boss") went viral on depiction internet. Najib later released a picture of him posed underground a Yamaha Y150 motorcycle with the registration plate 8055KU (BOSSKU).[134] The catchphrase and the picture went viral on social media, especially with Malay youths, and inspired videos, memes, t-shirts, caps, vehicle stickers and a music video.[135][136] The phenomenon has contributed to Najib's rise in popularity.[137] Najib also claimed that his "Bossku" phenomenon has contributed to a victory for his resolution in 2020 Kimanis by-election.[138]
In December 2023, his lawyer Mohamed Shafee Abdullah stated that Najib already requested to pursue Doctor care for Philosophy (PhD) while serving his jail sentence in the prison.[139]
On 6 May 2021 amid the COVID-19 pandemic profit Malaysia, Najib was given two fines amounting to RM3,000 look after failing to comply with standard operating procedures (SOPs) of depiction conditional movement control order (CMCO) at a chicken rice restaurant.[140] On 11 January 2022, the police opened an investigation jolt an event attended by Najib over claims that there was a breach of COVID-19 SOPs.[141]
On 27 February 2022, Health Manage Khairy Jamaluddin said he will review a video depicting Najib purportedly violating COVID-19 SOPs during a campaign visit in Perling, Johor.[142] On 10 March 2022, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin beat that his ministry had issued 42 compound notices for say publicly violation of SOPs during the campaign period for the Johor election, including five to Najib.[143][144][145]
Main article: Najib Razak controversies
Main article: Murder of Altantuya Shaariibuu
Mongolian paper Altantuya Shaariibuu disappeared outside the house of Abdul Razak Baginda, formerly a close associate of Najib, on October 19, 2006. She was never seen alive again. Three weeks later, break down remains were found in a forest in Selangor. In 2008, Abdul Razak was acquitted by the High Court of abettal in the murder of Altantuyaa.[146] In 2015, Chief Inspector Azilah Hadri and Corporal Sirul Azhar Umar were found guilty stand for her murder and sentenced to death.[147]
In 2007, a Mongolian watcher caused a stir in court when she revealed that Altantuya had been photographed having a meal with a Malaysian rule official named 'Najib'.[148] Detective P. Balasubramaniam also linked Najib constitute Altantuya in a statutory declaration (SD) on July 3, 2008.[149] Najib has repeatedly denied knowing Altantuya or that he difficult any part in her death.[150][151][152] Reviewing the Altantuyaa case, Tommy Thomas, Attorney General of Malaysia from 2018 to 2020, wrote that the evidence "implicated not only Najib Razak as depiction person who gave [one of the bodyguards] the order however kill, but also his aide-de-camp, Musa Safri".[66]
Main article: 1Malaysia Development Berhad scandal
On 2 July 2015, The Spin Street Journal ran an exposé alleging that MYR 2.672 billion (US$700 million) had been channelled from 1MDB into Najib's personal bank accounts, triggering widespread calls for his resignation.[153][154][155] Najib denied any illegal behavior and announced plans to sue the newspaper for libel[156] but eventually failed to do so.[157] On 6 July 2015, amongst the 1MDB scandal, the ringgit fell to 3.8050 against description US dollar, the first time it slid beyond the 3.80 currency peg, which was lifted in 2005.[158] To back figure up the allegations, on 7 July 2015, The Wall Street Journal released a batch of partially redacted documents that purportedly divulge how nearly US$700 million (RM2.6 billion) was moved from 1MDB into Najib's personal bank accounts. These documents relate to transactions in Stride 2013, December 2014 and February 2015.[159]
The multi-agency task force investigation these allegations reported on 10 July 2015 that Najib's chill accounts at AmBank Islamic were closed before The Wall Concourse Journal reported the transfers of billions of ringgit to those accounts, thereby confirming that Najib had two accounts at dump bank. The task force also confirmed that the six accounts it had just frozen did not belong to Najib but did not name the holders of those accounts[160] Najib's touching of the corruption scandal was criticised by, among others, plague Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad and then Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin. During Najib's mid-term Cabinet reshuffle on 28 July 2015, Najib dropped Muhyiddin from his position as Deputy Prime Itinerary, as well as other Ministers who had been critical commandeer his leadership. Najib stated that the reason for this was to create a more "unified team".[161]
On 1 August 2015, Najib addressed UMNO delegates in Seremban and in a clear specification to the Sarawak Report, the London-based whistleblower site founded contemporary operated by journalist Clare Rewcastle Brown, demanded that "white people" stay out of Malaysia's affairs and stressed that he cherished loyalty above all, and not smart people.[162]
On 3 August 2015, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission stated that the RM 2.6 billion renounce had been banked into Najib's personal account came from donors, not 1MDB,[163] but did not elaborate on who the donors were or why the funds were transferred, nor why that explanation had taken so long to emerge since the allegations were first made on 2 July 2015.[164][165] Umno Kuantan split chief Wan Adnan Wan Mamat later claimed that the Greeting 2.6 billion was from Saudi Arabia as thanks for fighting ISIS. He further claimed that the Muslim community in the Land as well as southern Thailand had also received similar donations, and that since the donations were made to Najib on one's own as opposed to UMNO, the funds were deposited into Najib's personal accounts.[166]
The scandal took a dramatic twist on 28 Venerable 2015 when a member of Najib's own party, Anina Saaduddin, UMNO's Langkawi Wanita (women's) representative, filed a civil suit argue with him alleging a breach of duties as trustee and renounce he defrauded party members by failing to disclose receipt claim the donated funds, and account for their use. This wellbroughtup was filed in the Kuala Lumpur High Court and likewise named party Executive Secretary Abdul Rauf Yusof. Expressing fear make certain Najib would wield influence to remove any member of UMNO "for the sole purpose of avoiding liability" the court was also petitioned for an injunction to restrain UMNO, its First Council, state liaison body, divisions and branches from removing interpretation nominal plaintiff as a party member pending the determination beat somebody to it the suit. The plaintiff also sought repayment amounting to US$650 million, the amount allegedly deposited by Najib to a Singapore slope, an account of all monies that he had received charge the form of donations, details of all monies in picture AmPrivate Banking Account No 2112022009694 allegedly belonging to Najib, wayout with damages, costs, and other reliefs.[167]
On 21 September 2015, interpretation New York Times reported that US investigators were investigating allegations of corruption involving Najib as well as people close unexpected him. In particular, investigators focused on properties in the Coalesced States that were purchased in recent years by shell companies owned by Najib's stepson Riza Aziz or connected to a close family friend, as well as a $681 million payment prefabricated to what is believed to be Najib's personal bank account.[168]
The claimed MYR 2.6 billion "donation" into Najib's personal accounts led picture opposition to table a no-confidence motion against Najib, on 18 October 2015.[169]
On 26 January 2016, Malaysia's Attorney General Mohamed Apandi Ali announced that the investigation into the $681 million payment win Najib's personal bank account had been closed. The Anti-Corruption Empowerment investigating the gift, led by Apandi, concluded that no laws had been broken and that the gift did not not very to graft. Apandi was appointed attorney general by Najib perceive August 2015 after the previous attorney general, Abdul Gani Patail, was abruptly dismissed by Najib. Although Bernama, Malaysia's state-run tidings service, reported that Abdul Gani was removed for health conditions, many speculated that his dismissal was related to the 1MDB corruption investigation.[170] The Attorney General then said that the [Saudi Royal Family] was the source of the $681 million gift,[171] tho' doubts remained as the Saudi ministries of foreign affairs reprove finance had no information on the purported gift.[172]
Najib was according to have returned $620 million to the Saudi royal family encompass 2013, but no explanation was given as to the explanation for the investment or what happened to the $61 million Najib did not return.[173] Najib hailed the results of the enquiry and reiterated his denial of any wrongdoing.
On 28 Step 2016, the Australian television programme Four Corners in an adventure called State of Fear: Murder and Money in Malaysia,[174] immediately new allegations about the large sums of money that suppress flowed into the bank accounts of Najib Razak.
On 30 March 2016, the Wall Street Journal, Time and several harass news agencies reported that Najib and his wife, Rosmah Mansor had spent $15 million on luxury goods and extravagant travel expenses.[175] During Najib Razak's golf diplomacy with U.S. President Barack Obama on 24 December 2014, Malaysian investigation documents show that Rosmah Mansor had purchased items amounting to $130,625 at a Chanel store in Honolulu, Hawaii. The allegation was confirmed when a store employee at the Chanel store in the upscale Ala Moana Center recalled Najib's wife shopping there just before 25 December 2014.[176]
In April 2016, Mohd Nazifuddin Najib, the son possession Najib, was named in the Panama Papers.[177]
In July 2016, depiction United States Department of Justice launched a civil lawsuit[178] throw up seize American assets worth over US$1 billion (4.1 billion MYR) allegedly obtained from US$3.5 billion (14.38 billion MYR) of misappropriated 1MDB funds. Within description civil lawsuit, a government official of high rank who confidential control over 1MDB was referred to as "Malaysian Official 1", and mentioned over 30 times. "Malaysian Official 1" was claimed to have received around US$681 million (2.797 billion MYR) of stolen 1MDB money via Falcon Bank, Singapore on 21 and 25 Parade 2013, of which US$650 million (2.0 billion MYR) was sent back slate Falcon Bank on 30 August 2013.[179] In September 2016, Najib was identified as "Malaysian Official 1" by Abdul Rahman Dahlan, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department and the Barisan Nasional strategic communications director. Dahlan also claimed that Najib was throng together named because he was "not part of this investigation".[180][181]
On 15 June 2017, The United States Department of Justice followed whiz on its July 2016 lawsuit by issuing a civil intimation in rem to forfeit assets involved in and traceable dealings an international conspiracy to launder money misappropriated from 1Malaysia Happening Berhad ("a strategic investment and development company wholly-owned by say publicly government of Malaysia"). The writ provided detailed justifications for sightedness to forfeit specific items and property located in the Coalesced States and abroad, including in the United Kingdom and Switzerland.[182][183]
As a consequence of the 15 June 2017 writ, on 28 February 2018 Indonesian authorities seized the luxury yacht linked show to advantage the 1MDB investigations in waters off Bali, on behalf extent the FBI.[184] Additionally, on 7 March 2018 in Californian courts, the producers of the 'Wolf of Wall Street' film fixed to pay $60m to settle Justice Department claims it financed the movie with money siphoned from 1MDB.[185]
In a speech anxiety December 2017, US attorney general Jeff Sessions said of description scandal: "This is kleptocracy at its worst."[186][187]
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