If you’ve been too busy stuffing your face with durian for the last month or so, you probably have no idea that our friends across the border have a new leader.
On 21 Aug, Umno vice-president Ismail Sabri Yaakob was sworn in as Malaysia’s ninth prime minister, ousting Muhyiddin Yassin after less than two years in power.
In fact, he’s the country’s third leader since the 2018 elections, when then-premier Najib Razak was forced to vacate his post.
Though he’s appealing against a conviction of bribery, Najib found time out of his day to visit Malaysia’s prime minister to discuss its present challenges.
M’sia PM Ismail Sabri Yaakoob Discussed ‘Economic Challenges’ with Former PM Najib Razak in Their Recent Meeting
“Make no mistake… Malaysia is still in crisis”, Najib said in a Facebook post about his meeting with Ismail Sabri.
The pair had met up to discuss the economic challenges that Malaysia currently faces, and how best to tackle them.
In his post, Najib conceded that not many Malaysians have confidence in their economy at the moment, as they still have concerns about their income and job stability.
He said that Malaysia is no longer attractive to foreign investors after 2018, and that it is behind its neighbouring countries.
While it is already in “crisis”, Malaysia will face greater challenges concerning the welfare and income of residents, as well as the country’s economy, he said.
In his hour-long chat with the prime minister, the 68-year-old discussed the next steps Malaysia should take to rectify these issues.
“If something is wrong, I’m against it, if it’s good, I will support it,” he said.
“This is the time to prioritise the people and focus on achievements, we cannot afford to fail again”, Najib said.
Mr Sabri echoed his compatriot’s sentiments, saying Najib was committed to contributing his time, effort, and ideas for the sake of the “Malaysian family”.
Corruption Conviction
Back in July 2020, Najib was found guilty of several charges including criminal breach of trust and abuse of power.
He had been implicated in a major corruption scandal involving state investment firm 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).
He’s appealed the corruption conviction, but is still facing several other charges.
The US authorities alleged that over US$4.5 billion (S$6.2 billion) was embezzled from the 1MDB fund and spent to purchase yachts, paintings, and high-end properties across the world.
Najib was also ordered to pay RM1.69 billion to the Inland Revenue Board for unpaid taxes.
Learn more about Malaysia’s political situation here:
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Featured Image: Facebook (Ismail Sabri Yaakob)
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