Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng has urged Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to formally oppose fugitive financier Low Taek Jho’s reported pardon application in the United States over the 1MDB scandal.
In a statement today, Lim said Anwar should immediately write to US President Donald Trump to register Malaysia’s “firm opposition” to any pardon involving Low.
He said such a move would demonstrate the Pakatan Harapan chairperson’s continued commitment to ensuring all those involved in the 1MDB scandal are held accountable and compelled to make full restitution of stolen funds.
“Since the 1MDB scandal erupted, Anwar, together with Harapan leaders, demanded stern action against those responsible and full accountability for stolen funds.
“Now that Anwar is the prime minister, he cannot forsake this pledge to act,” Lim said.
He added that there “cannot be any lack of purpose or dedication” in ensuring those responsible for the scandal do not escape punishment or retain stolen assets through pardons.
Low was charged in 2018 but has remained at large.
He has been accused of masterminding a scheme that siphoned at least US$4.5 billion from 1MDB, together with two former bankers from Goldman Sachs.
Lim further cited allegations by the US Department of Justice that about US$1 billion in kickbacks was paid to participants in the scheme, while Low allegedly pocketed a total of US$1.42 billion.
He also said Low was accused of paying about US$2 billion in bribes to government officials, including former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak, who was convicted and jailed.
“It is simply unacceptable for him to be granted a pardon after successfully evading arrest by Malaysian and US authorities,” Lim said.
The DAP adviser said Anwar must inform Trump of the implications that such a pardon would have on the rule of law in Malaysia and global efforts to combat corruption.
Application for a Trump pardon
On May 13, The Wall Street Journal reported that Low’s application to Trump seeks a “pardon after completion of sentence”, with its status still pending.
In 2024, Low struck a settlement with the US Department of Justice for the return of US$100 million (RM450 million) being sought in a civil forfeiture suit.
However, the financier - who is believed to be hiding in China - is still wanted on criminal charges, including alleged conspiracy to embezzle 1MDB funds. - Mkini
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