KUANTAN: Former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's public apology over the 1MDB scandal is not an attempt to gain sympathy, says an Umno vice-president.
"I believe the statement was made sincerely and came from the heart," said Umno vice-president Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail in a statement.
Wan Rosdy added that the statement reflected Najib's good intentions, though certain parties had taken advantage of him.
"His public apology to Malaysians is not about seeking sympathy but rather reflects the actions of a person with a big heart," he said.
The Pahang Menteri Besar also said he hopes that Najib will be freed and that justice will prevail against the masterminds behind the 1MDB scandal.
Yesterday, Najib issued an apology over the 1MDB scandal but asserted his innocence in the matter.
He claimed he was deceived by fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho and his associates.
Najib faces multiple corruption charges involving 1MDB.
The High Court is expected to decide if can walk free or must enter his defence on the 1MDB case on Oct 30.
In 2022, Najib was sentenced to 12 years in jail and fined RM210 million after he was convicted in the SRC International case.
Earlier this year, the Pardons Board halved Najib's jail term and reduced his RM210 million fine to RM50 million.