Najib, now 71, was convicted in 2020 after the 1MDB scandal unveiled extensive corruption ties extending beyond Malaysia. Although he was sentenced to prison and fined, his legal journey has witnessed multiple retrials and dropped charges, leading him to seek a home confinement arrangement for the term ending in 2028. His fluctuating legal outcomes have kindled debates about former Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's leadership—the current head of Malaysia, who came to power promoting an anti-corruption agenda yet formed his government with Najib's party, the United Malays National Organization. Anwar's recent remarks, suggesting a focus on recovering stolen funds rather than imprisoning individuals, further emphasize the complexities facing Malaysia's political landscape.

As Najib's situation progresses, concerns about systemic corruption and governance integrity in Malaysia continue to echo throughout the nation.