Jailed former Malaysia PM Najib conferred leadership award by Umno Youth

Datuk Nizar Najib (left) and Datuk Mohd Nazifuddin Najib (right) receiving the Umno Youth leadership award on behalf of their father. PHOTO: NIZAR NAJIB/FACEBOOK

Umno Youth has conferred an award on jailed former party president Najib Razak as a token of appreciation for “his services and contribution” to Malaysia.

The Umno Youth leadership award, in the form of a miniature white keris (dagger), was presented to his sons, Datuk Mohd Nazifuddin Najib and Datuk Mohd Nizar Najib, at its annual general assembly on Thursday.

The award is given yearly in conjunction with the Umno annual general assembly, which is ongoing until Saturday.

Youth chief Akmal Saleh praised Najib, who was Malaysia’s prime minister for nine years from 2009, for implementing inclusive policies that prioritised the welfare of the people.

“Bossku, he served the people,” he said in his speech, referring to Najib’s moniker, which means “my boss” in English. “He also introduced many policies that helped youth.”

A video montage of Najib was played, showcasing his political journey with words of support and praises from party leaders and supporters.

Najib’s sons were in tears when they received the award. Najib is serving a 12-year prison sentence for misappropriating RM42 million (S$12.3 million) from SRC International, a former subsidiary of 1MDB.

Chants of “Malu Apa Bossku” (There’s nothing to be ashamed of, my boss), the battle cry of Najib’s supporters, rang out among those in the hall.

Mr Nazifuddin, who is an Umno Youth exco member, said the video is a reminder of his father’s links to the youth wing.

“I am proud I am able to continue his work and legacy,” he added.

Mr Nizar, who is the Peramu Jaya assemblyman, said his family appreciates the award as his father has remained loyal to the party, despite the numerous challenges he has encountered.

“My family and I do not want the momentum to (free Najib) to slow down or fade, or people will forget (about him),” news portal Free Malaysia Today quoted him as saying.

Najib was Umno Youth chief from 1987 until 1993 before rising through the ranks to become the party president, serving from 2009 until 2018.

Since his incarceration, he has applied for a royal pardon from Malaysia’s King, which, if granted, would see him released without serving the full 12-year term.

He still faces dozens of other charges related to the financial scandal surrounding 1MDB, including a criminal breach of trust charge involving RM6.6 billion.

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