Response from A Reader

Dear Editor,

I write with grave concern and deep disappointment over the recent conduct of the Pahang Palace in issuing an addendum decree that appears to benefit Najib Razak, outside the proper process of the Pardons Board. This is not a trivial matter. It cuts to the very core of Malaysia’s rule of law and the dignity of our institutions.

The rakyat can see clearly that ministers, the Attorney General, and civil servants are being dragged into this mess, forced to appear as though they must comply with a directive that was never part of the Pardons Board’s deliberation — all to preserve the palace’s historical ties with the Tun Razak family. This is irresponsible and unbecoming of an institution that should embody wisdom and impartiality.

Let us not forget: Najib Razak is not a political detainee. He is a convicted criminal, and he still faces multiple pending trials for serious charges. To grant him the extraordinary privilege of house arrest is not only unjust — it is unconstitutional. There is no provision in Malaysian law or in our Federal Constitution that allows a convicted criminal to serve his sentence under “house arrest.” Should any court or authority attempt to implement this, it would first require Parliament to debate and pass an amendment to create such a legal provision. Without that, it is nothing more than a dangerous abuse of power dressed up as royal discretion.

Even worse, this maneuver is being spun as though it were an act of gratitude to Najib and the Tun Razak family for supporting the so-called “Unity Government.” This is a blatant attempt to manipulate both the palace and the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, into shielding one man from justice. Such political games come at the expense of our institutions, our democracy, and the rakyat’s trust.

What will become of our justice system if we allow this precedent to stand? Where does this leave the judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement officers who have worked tirelessly to uphold justice? Where does it leave the ordinary rakyat who must face the full weight of the law without connections or privilege?

The Pahang Palace must remember its true role: to safeguard dignity, fairness, and justice — not to interfere with the courts and shield criminals. To undermine the law for one man is to betray the rakyat and the very principles that hold this nation together.

This is not about politics. It is about the sovereignty of our legal system, the separation of powers, and the future of Malaysia as a just nation. If Najib Razak is allowed to escape real punishment under the cover of a royal addendum, Malaysia will be telling the world that connections to power matter more than the rule of law.

It is time for the palace to show true accountability: protect justice, not privilege. Protect the dignity of the nation, not the comfort of one man.

The rakyat must demand accountability. Civil society must not remain silent. The media must continue to shine a light on this abuse of power. If we fail to resist, we risk losing the very foundation of our justice system. Malaysia deserves better — and it is our duty to speak out.