Malaysia seeks extradition of Tim Leissner over 1MDB scandal

Malaysian authorities are actively seeking the extradition of former Goldman Sachs partner Tim Leissner from the United States due to his central role in the 1MDB corruption scandal, having submitted a formal request to the US Justice Department and secured an Interpol red notice in late 2024. Leissner pleaded guilty in the US in 2018 to conspiring to launder money and paying bribes, admitting to receiving substantial kickbacks, and his sentencing—postponed multiple times—is set for May 29. Malaysian officials are concerned that Leissner may attempt to flee to Germany, his birthplace, to evade extradition. The scandal, involving the misappropriation of over $4.5 billion, has led to global investigations and the downfall of Malaysia’s former prime minister. Roger Ng, another convicted former Goldman banker, has returned to Malaysia and is assisting authorities, including as a defense witness in ongoing trials. Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs and Malaysia remain in dispute over a multi-billion dollar settlement related to the scandal.