Asian Angle | Malaysia’s ex-PM Najib’s eventual conviction shows feudalism not forever
- The former prime minister was riding high, and from a gilded and privileged background, until he began to be seen as unfair and corrupt
- Once he began losing people’s support, it was only a matter of time before nation’s feudalism was overridden and he was put behind bars
But he was not in handcuffs or an orange jumpsuit, as per usual MACC procedures. He had not spent the night at the MACC lock-up like other accused. Instead, Najib walked into court in his trademark navy blazer and a striking red tie, surrounded by guards and supporters.
This summer, shortly before he finally lost his appeal against his 2020 conviction for corruption, Najib still left his luxurious home surrounded by bodyguards and was greeted by a legion of loyal supporters at the court entrance.
Throughout the legal process, Najib received treatment that would not usually be available for a convict of a serious crime. He was allowed to pay his bail of 2 million ringgit (US$438,000) in instalments, whereas other accused have had to pay it outright or risk being detained in custody.
His almost never-ending requests for delays and adjournments were also honoured, as was his frequent absence and treating the courtroom like a cafe, sometimes sipping on a coffee.
