Solidarity Fund For Najib Raises Over RM1 Million In Less Than A Day

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UMNO's Tabung Solidariti Najib Razak raised more than RM1 million in less than a day, according to party secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki

Asyraf shared the update on Saturday, 19 September, after UMNO launched the fund to help former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak pay a RM50 million fine.

The fine is one of the conditions attached to Najib's conditional royal pardon, which allows him to serve the remainder of his prison sentence under house arrest until 23 August 2028.

In a Facebook post on Friday, 18 September, Asyraf said the fund had collected RM634,562.02 within its first three hours.

"Many contributed as little as RM10 and RM50," he said, sharing details of UMNO's official bank account for those who wished to contribute.

UMNO president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had previously said the fund is meant to lighten the former prime minister's burden in paying the RM50 million fine

"UMNO calls on its leadership, members, and supporters to freely donate to this initiative, which will be done transparently and orderly, and in accordance with the law," he said after the pardon was announced.

According to UMNO, the party could potentially raise RM30 million if its estimated 3.8 million members contributed at least RM10 each.

UMNO Supreme Council member Datuk Razlan Rafii said the target was achievable, according to the New Straits Times.

"Looking at the amount collected so far, we are positive about the support given to the Tabung Solidariti Najib Razak," he said on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Najib has said Malaysians who have offered to help pay the RM50 million fine should not feel "burdened or obliged" to do so

According to Malay Mail, in a statement issued on his behalf, his lawyers from Messrs Shafee & Co said Najib was grateful to those who had offered their assistance.

"While our client is deeply touched by these expressions of solidarity, he does not wish the party, its members and supporters, or members of the public to feel burdened or obliged on his account," the lawyers said.

They added that any support should be given "entirely of their own free will and according to their respective means".