Prison life difficult for Najib after a 'seven-star hotel' lifestyle, says Anwar

SHAH ALAM - Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said prison life will be difficult for former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak who is used to a luxurious life.

He claimed although it is understood that Najib will receive better treatment including getting some facilities, it is still difficult compared to the 'seven-star hotel' lifestyle he had previously.

"From what I understand from my prison officers, Najib will be given better treatment. He will have some facilities unlike when I was in prison before.

"Compared to his 'seven-star hotel' lifestyle, he has to experience something very difficult now,” he said in CNBC's 'Squawk Box Asia' broadcast.

Anwar said the Federal Court's decision to uphold Najib's SRC International conviction was a good start in reforming Malaysia's democratic process.

"I think this is a good start, it reforms and matures Malaysia as a vibrant democratic country with strong institutions.

"Political leaders and political elites who continue to commit crimes with impunity, they think they can't be defeated by the law, but now, the message is very clear," he said.

Therefore, he said, credit must be given to those who have decided to vote for change in the coming general elections.

"We need to keep this up. If they are determined to ensure that this country is safe from corrupt leaders, then they need to take a stand to elect those who are not corrupt," he said.

The Federal Court on Tuesday upheld Najib's 12-year prison sentence and RM210 million fine for abuse of power, money laundering and breach of trust amounting to RM42 million in SRC International funds.