A BANK manager today told the Kuala Lumpur High Court that in 2013, jailed former prime minister Najib Razak had received RM2.08 billion.

Ambank’s Jalan Raja Chulan branch manager, R. Uma Devi said that nine deposits amounting to RM2.08 bil was credited into Najib’s account ending in 9694. 

“There were nine transactions in March and April 2013 amounting to RM2,081,476,926.00.”

“I confirm the entry of money into this account as per the account statement AmIslamic Bank Berhad dated April 14, 2013 referred to me,” she said. 

During the prosecution’s opening statement, they claimed that the sum of 2,081,476,926.00 originated from companies linked to fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho, or Jho Low, as he is popularly known.

The defence, however, are claiming during the trial that the money received was an Arab donation.

Uma said that in August 2013, RM2.03 billion was sent to Tanore Singapore. 

Deputy public prosecutor Najwa Bistamam then questioned Uma about Najib’s accounts.

She asked what type of account Najib had with the bank to which Uma replied it was a current account. 

Uma then said that Ambank upper management gave Najib special approval to name his accounts as AmPrivate Banking-1MY.

Najwa then asked if any other customers got the same privilege to change the name of their account. 

Uma said that only Najib was given that privilege. 

Najwa then asks if anyone else can access these accounts.

Uma said that besides the relationship manager and branch staff no one else would have access.

Najwa then asked if there is anyone that can sign cheques on behalf of his account.

Uma said no one (can sign cheques) only the account holder has access.

Najwa also questioned Uma on who was responsible for any transactions.

Uma said Najib is fully responsible for all accounts. – September 26, 2022.