The 61st Meeting of the Federal Territories Pardons Board for Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya has decided to grant a 50% reduction in the sentence and fine imposed on former Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

The Secretariat of the Federal Territories Pardons Board, Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya, Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister's Department, stated that Najib has been approved for early release on August 23, 2028.

"Additionally, the fine of RM210,000,000 has been reduced to RM50,000,000. However, if the fine is not paid, Najib's prison term will be extended by one year, with his release date set for August 23, 2029," it said in a statement today.

This decision has sparked various reactions among netizens. Many Malaysians are dismayed by the news, as it sends the message that corruption is acceptable in Malaysia and that with good behaviour, one can secure early release from prison. Netizens are outraged that Najib not only received a reduced sentence but also saw his total fine slashed by more than 50%.

Netizens have drawn comparisons, highlighting cases where individuals received harsher punishments for minor offences, such as stealing two cans of Milo, while Najib, who is accused of embezzling billions from the people, receives only a 12-year sentence, which they argue should have been over 60 years. They see this as yet another example of how the elite benefit unfairly.

Some netizens perceive this as a clear case of double standards, emphasizing that as long as one has money, one can evade justice. 

So are you taking the news?