Malaysian PM apologizes

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, currently imprisoned, has issued a rare apology for the misappropriation of billions from the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) fund, which he established in 2009. In a letter read by his son, Najib expressed remorse for the scandal that occurred 'under my watch' but maintained his innocence, claiming he was misled and should not be held legally accountable for actions he did not initiate. Investigators allege that over $4.5 billion was stolen from 1MDB, with funds used for extravagant purchases and Hollywood financing. His apology comes as he faces a pivotal court decision regarding a second graft trial, where he faces multiple charges including money laundering. Najib's government was overthrown in the 2018 election amid the scandal, which has triggered investigations in six countries. He emphasized his desire for the judicial process to prove his innocence, asserting that he has already faced sufficient political punishment.