Entering the Parliament of Malaysia at age 23 in 1976, Najib Razak began a political ascent that spanned over four decades. As the eldest son of former Prime Minister Abdul Razak Hussein, he secured the Pekan parliamentary seat following his father's death, eventually leading the nation as the sixth Prime Minister between 2009 and 2018.
Early Career and Ministerial Roles
After graduating from the University of Nottingham in 1974 with a degree in industrial economics, Najib returned to Malaysia for brief roles at Bank Negara and Petronas. His political career accelerated quickly; by 1978, he became the youngest deputy minister in the country. He served as Menteri Besar of Pahang from 1982 to 1986 and held various cabinet portfolios, including Minister of Defence from 1990 to 1995 and again from 1999 to 2008.
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Najib became Prime Minister in 2009, also serving as Minister of Finance 2 until 2018 and chairman of the Malaysian National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs. His administration implemented economic liberalisation measures and introduced the Goods and Services Tax. During his tenure, the government navigated the Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 disappearance and diplomatic disputes. Support for his coalition, Barisan Nasional, declined amid rising living costs and public protests organized by the Bersih movement.
1MDB Scandal and Legal Proceedings
In 2015, Najib faced allegations regarding the state investment firm 1Malaysia Development Berhad. Following his coalition's defeat in the 2018 general election, he was arrested by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission. The High Court subsequently convicted him of abuse of power, money laundering, and criminal breach of trust related to SRC International funds. He received a 12-year prison sentence, which was upheld by the Federal Court in 2022.
Fast facts
- Born: 1953, Kuala Lipis, Malaysia
- Education: Malvern College; University of Nottingham
- Parliamentary career start: 1976
- Prime Minister of Malaysia: 2009-2018
- Minister of Defence: 1990-1995; 1999-2008
- Award: Collar of the Order of Abdul Aziz Al Saud
- Languages: English, Malay
Questions readers ask
What was Najib Razak's final role before his imprisonment?
He served as the Prime Minister of Malaysia until 2018, when his coalition lost the general election.
Which educational institutions did he attend?
He attended Kian Kok Middle School, Malvern College, and the University of Nottingham.
Achievements
- Prime Minister of Malaysia (2009–2018)
- Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia (2008–2009)
- Minister of Defence
- Member of the Dewan Rakyat
- Collar of the Order of Abdul Aziz Al Saud
- Educated at University of Nottingham and Malvern College
