PUTRAJAYA: The decision of the Pardons Board to reduce Datuk Seri Najib Razak's sentence was influenced by Najib's contributions to the nation, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister explained that various factors were considered during the Pardons Board meeting, including Najib's role, life journey, contributions to his family, prison life, services, and contributions to the community.
The discussion also encompassed details of the judicial process, the nature of the case, and the imposed punishment.
"The appeal process to the Pardons Board considers a holistic view of the individual's life and contributions.
"Information is thoroughly presented before each board member provides their perspective, ultimately leading to the decision by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong," he said at the Prime Minister's Assembly with officials from the Prime Minister's Department held today.
Anwar added that as the Prime Minister, he must ensure that every appeal application receives due consideration from the Appeals Board.
"Some argue that there must be a three-year gap (after sentencing to apply for a pardon), which is inaccurate. Anyone undergoing the process for the first time is eligible to submit an appeal.
"In the context of this case, when appeals are officially announced, I, as the Prime Minister, take measures to ensure their proper consideration.
"I acknowledge the weight of this responsibility. Upon receiving any appeal, I promptly request the Pardons Board to convene and deliberate on the matter," he said.
Anwar noted that he participated in the inaugural meeting of the Federal Territories Pardons Board on Dec 9, given his responsibility for Federal Territories-related matters at that time.
Following a Cabinet reshuffle, Dr Zaliha Mustafa assumed leadership of the Federal Territories portfolio, representing Anwar in subsequent board meetings.
"While my attendance was limited to the Dec 9 meeting, subsequent sessions were presided over by the Federal Territories Minister and the Attorney General.
"Nonetheless, I remain actively engaged in reviewing the appeal submitted by the former Prime Minister," he said.
On Feb 2, The Federal Territories Pardons Board chaired by then-Yang diPertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah decided to reduce Datuk Seri Najib Razak's fine as well as halve his 12-year jail term to six.
The former prime minister will be released from prison on Aug 23, 2028.