Najib unwell, so 1MDB trial cut short

KUALA LUMPUR: The graft trial of Datuk Seri Najib Razak involving 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) at the High Court here was halted as the former prime minister was not well.

Justice Collin Lawrence Sequerah was informed by Kajang Prison medical officer Dr Mohd Hafiz Mohd Hoshni, who examined Najib, that the patient complained of a stomach ache and had to go to the toilet three times on Tuesday (April 2) morning.

"Najib looked weak, tired and dehydrated. I prescribed him (medication and) oral rehydration salts," said Dr Mohd Hafiz.

According to the doctor, Najib's blood pressure was also low.

He was summoned to court during the RM2.28bil 1MDB trial to explain Najib's condition.

Proceedings had already started when DPP Ahmad Akram Gharib said he was informed of Najib's illness by prison authorities.

Justice Sequerah then asked if Najib would be able to sit through the proceedings for the day.

The doctor, however, said it would not be possible as the medicine he prescribed may cause drowsiness and that Najib should rest for at least two days.

Justice Sequerah said he would end the trial earlier than usual and that the hearing would continue on Wednesday (April 3).

Dr Mohd Hafiz was asked to produce Najib's medical certificate for the day.

Najib, 70, is on trial for 25 charges in total: four for abuse of power that allegedly brought him the financial benefit to the tune of RM2.28bil; and 21 for money laundering involving the same amount of money.