Extradition challenges: Why bringing Jho Low back to Malaysia isn’t easy

SHAH ALAM – Malaysia’s efforts to bring fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho, better known as Jho Low, to justice could face significant hurdles.

While the country could formally request his extradition from Myanmar, the process was unlikely to proceed smoothly due to the lack of a bilateral agreement and the political turmoil in Myanmar.

International Islamic University Malaysia Associate Professor of International Law Dr Mohd Yazid Zul Kepli explained that the lack of a binding legal framework between Malaysia and Myanmar adds complexity to the situation.

He pointed out that, so far, there was no evidence of a bilateral extradition agreement between the two countries.

“The success of such a request also depends on diplomatic relations and cooperation between the two nations.

“The absence of an agreement makes the extradition process difficult. Furthermore, Myanmar’s current unstable political situation could hinder cooperation in extradition matters.

“Myanmar’s authorities might not prioritise extradition requests from other countries under such circumstances,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.

This came after lead counsel for former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah suggested that Jho Low is likely hiding in conflict-stricken Myanmar.

Shafee made this assertion during a forum, ‘Media Townhall: Getting the Facts Right - The Untold Stories of 1MDB and Other Cases’ on Tuesday.

He explained his conclusion was based on cross-examinations involving Jasmine Loo Ai Swan, a former legal advisor to 1MDB and an alleged proxy of Jho Low.

Despite these challenges, Yazid suggested that Malaysia could consider alternative measures to address the situation.

He highlighted options such as diplomatic negotiations or leveraging international legal channels, in addition to extradition, to bring Jho Low to justice.

“Although Interpol can assist in locating and apprehending wanted individuals, the organisation has no authority to compel a country to hand over the individual.

“The final decision lies within the laws and discretion of the respective country,” he added.

Key Facts About Jho Low

Jho Low, a central figure in the 1MDB scandal, has gained international notoriety. He is known for his lavish lifestyle, which included owning a luxury yacht seized in February. Other notable facts about him include:

• He was raised in a wealthy family in Penang.
• Educated at elite schools in Britain and the United States.
• Known to have close ties with Saudi Arabian royalty.
• Played a role in establishing the 1MDB fund.
• Previously sold a luxury New York residence to Najib’s stepson.
• Currently serving as the CEO of Jynwel Capital.