Malaysia's United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) expressed optimism that former Prime Minister Najib Razak will receive a royal pardon. Party president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who also serves as deputy prime minister, stated "We hope for the best" during UMNO's annual assembly in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday. Zahid added, "I am confident His Majesty's discretion and wisdom will determine the final decision." The remarks come as Najib Razak pursues his latest bid for clemency following his conviction in the 1MDB corruption scandal.

UMNO, Malaysia's former long-ruling party, remains a key coalition partner in the current government led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The pardon application is being considered by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Malaysia's constitutional monarch. A successful pardon would allow Najib Razak to potentially return to active politics, significantly impacting Malaysia's political landscape ahead of the next general election.