ALOR GAJAH: Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has expressed gratitude following the High Court’s decision allowing former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak to serve the remainder of his prison sentence under house arrest with immediate effect.
The deputy prime minister, who is also Umno president, said the decision was significant for Umno and Barisan Nasional leaders and members, as well as those who had been praying for Najib to be reunited with his family.
“We also wish to express our deepest gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, who chaired the Pardons Board and decided that Najib could serve the remainder of his sentence at home.
“I would also like to thank the entire Umno leadership at all levels, party members and Malaysians who contributed to the public fundraising campaign, which raised the RM50 million needed to pay the fine imposed on him,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after launching the RISDA Smallholders’ Prosperity Programme and Melaka State Open Day 2026 at Universiti Kolej Agrosains Malaysia in Ayer Pa’abas here today.
Zahid hoped the latest development would put an end to the prolonged controversy surrounding the implementation of the royal addendum order allowing Najib to serve his sentence under house arrest.
He said all parties, including legal practitioners and institutions responsible for administering the law, should respect the powers vested in the royal institution under the Federal Constitution.
“Hopefully, what has happened and is happening will serve as a lesson to all of us, whether we are legal practitioners or those responsible for upholding the law, to comply with the decrees and powers of His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
“This is because, in law, the provisions enshrined in the Constitution are principles that must be upheld,” he said.
Zahid also prayed that all of Najib’s affairs would be made easier and that the former prime minister would be able to enjoy a peaceful life with his family.
Earlier today, the High Court set aside a release order dated Nov 6 and replaced it with a new order allowing Najib, 73, to serve the remainder of his prison sentence under house arrest at Jalan Langgak Duta, Kuala Lumpur, until Aug 23, 2028.