The High Court in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, has ruled that former Prime Minister Najib Razak must enter a defense in his second corruption trial related to the 1MDB state investment fund. The fund, established by Najib in 2009 to promote economic development, became embroiled in a scandal involving the alleged misappropriation of billions of dollars.
The prosecution has accused Najib of abusing his power to siphon over $700 million from the fund into his personal bank accounts between 2011 and 2014. Additionally, he faces 21 counts of money laundering involving the same amount. The trial judge highlighted Najib's vested interest in 1MDB and his central role in transactions that led to the fund's substantial debt.
