ANY decision made in the Pardons Board on matters relating to jailed Najib Razak is final, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today.

He said Yang di-Pertuan Agong has the final say as the Pardons Board chair, and that the federal government will not question the authority of the king.

This includes any decision by the king on Najib’s house detention, he added.

He reiterated that he would not interfere on any addendum order to grant Najib a house arrest, despite being criticised for doing nothing.

“This matter is under the purview of the Pardons Board and the king’s decree. That’s my answer, based on the discussions with the Attorney-General and information from the Malay rulers and the king.

“We are not trying to reduce the decision made by the judge. Somehow, certain quarters are not pleased with (our stance).

“Our stance is clear, the decision must be made in the Pardons Board meeting and the final decision by the king must also be made in the Pardons Board meeting.

“Up until now, there has been no action by the government that offends the role and power of the Malay rulers.

“Those who can’t understand the decision, they are not fit to be a political commentator,” he said in his speech at the special PKR’s 25th anniversary convention in Shah Alam.

On Friday, Anwar said he would not want to interfere on the matter, saying that the government respected the independence of the Pardons Board chaired by the king.

Najib has filed a legal application seeking answers if there is an addendum order from the former Agong allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest.

In support of Najib’s application, Deputy Prime Minister and Umno president Ahamd Zahid Hamidi filed an affidavit to confirm the existence of such an addendum order.

Answering critics

Anwar also hit out at his government’s critics, wishing them good luck in trying to create divisions in the unity government.

“To this group of people, I want to say good luck and goodbye.

“It will never work,” he said.

He said the unity government was strong with no cracks between the parties.

Anwar also added that critics alleged the people was suffering because the government had not done anything.

“Ask them who are the ones suffering? Is it those with Datuk and Tan Sri titles?” Anwar asked.

The PKR president also said his party had survived many trials and tribulations because it had idealism.

However, he added, there has never been an occasion where idealism had maintained throughout time.

“So, we must polish this idealism,” added Anwar.

According to him, attraction towards wealth, luxury and assets had led many astray.

“We have also seen betrayals in the party. That is why in this special convention, we must be prepared to evaluate what establishes PKR as a pillar in the struggle that was pursued,” said Anwar. – 21 April, 2024.