Ex-PM Muhyiddin: PN to Abolish Chairman, Introduce Councils
- Former Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin formally requested a royal pardon for his conviction on charges of abuse of power related to projects awarded to his party, Bersatu,...
- On November 7, 2023, Muhyiddin Yassin was found guilty by the Kuala Lumpur High Court of six charges of abuse of power in connection with the awarding of...
- The charges stemmed from allegations that Muhyiddin used his position as prime minister and president of Bersatu to solicit bribes and favors for the party.
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Muhyiddin yassin’s Royal Pardon Request
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Former Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin formally requested a royal pardon for his conviction on charges of abuse of power related to projects awarded to his party, Bersatu, on November 7, 2023, and acknowledged the letter in a public statement on Tuesday, January 23, 2024.
Background of the Conviction
On November 7, 2023, Muhyiddin Yassin was found guilty by the Kuala Lumpur High Court of six charges of abuse of power in connection with the awarding of government contracts worth RM232.9 million (approximately $50.7 million USD) to Bersatu-linked companies. The Star reported that Judge Datuk Muhammad Nazlan Mohd Ghazali found the prosecution had proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
The charges stemmed from allegations that Muhyiddin used his position as prime minister and president of Bersatu to solicit bribes and favors for the party. He was sentenced to 18 months in jail and fined RM300,000 (approximately $65,700 USD) for each charge, to be served concurrently. Channel NewsAsia provided detailed coverage of the sentencing.
The Pardon Process in Malaysia
In Malaysia, a royal pardon is a constitutional right granted by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King) upon the advice of the Pardons Board. The Federal Constitution (Article 42) outlines the pardon process. The pardons Board typically consists of the Attorney-General, a Federal Court judge, and other appointed members.
The process involves a review of the case, consideration of mitigating factors, and ultimately, a recommendation to the King. The King has the discretion to grant a full pardon, a commutation of the sentence, or a reduction in the fine. The Attorney-General’s Chambers plays a crucial role in advising the Pardons Board. Attorney-General’s Chambers of Malaysia
Muhyiddin’s Statement and Legal Strategy
Muhyiddin Yassin maintains his innocence and has described the charges as politically motivated. In his statement on January 23, 2024, he expressed confidence that the pardon would be granted. malay Mail reported on his public acknowledgement of submitting the pardon request.
His legal team is expected to present arguments highlighting alleged flaws in the prosecution’s case and emphasizing his contributions to the country during his tenure as prime minister. The defense will likely focus on the lack of direct evidence linking Muhyiddin to any wrongdoing. Free Malaysia Today covered his initial plans to appeal the conviction.
Current Status (as of January 28, 2026)
As of January 28, 2026, there have been no public announcements regarding the status of Muhyiddin Yassin’s pardon request. The Pardons Board has not issued any statements, and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong has not made any decisions public. Bernama (Malaysian National News Agency) remains the primary source for official updates on this matter, and their searches as of this date show