Wanita Umno welcomes Najib’s house arrest, backs RM50 million fine fund

KUALA LUMPUR: Wanita Umno has welcomed the decision allowing former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak to serve the remainder of his prison sentence under house arrest, describing it as a source of great relief to him, his family and Umno members.

Wanita Umno chief Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad said the women’s wing was grateful for the decision and expressed its appreciation to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for granting the royal consent.

“We raise our gratitude and appreciation to His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for His Majesty’s gracious consent,” she said in a statement.

Noraini said the decision would bring considerable relief to Najib, his family and the wider Umno family, who she said had never stopped praying for him.

She also said Wanita Umno fully supported the initiative announced by Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to establish a contribution fund to help Najib settle the RM50 million fine imposed on him.

Noraini urged Wanita Umno leaders and members at all levels to contribute voluntarily according to their means to help ease the burden faced by Najib and his family.

She said contributions should be made through the official channels to be announced by the party.

“Let us welcome this development with decorum, uphold propriety and continue to respect all processes and conditions that have been stipulated,” she said.

Najib, who is serving a prison sentence following his conviction in the SRC International case, has continued to seek a royal order allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest.

The issue has drawn considerable political and public attention, with Umno leaders and supporters repeatedly expressing support for the former prime minister.

Noraini ended her statement with the traditional expression of loyalty to the monarchy: “Daulat Tuanku.”