Najib Razak said Malaysians now realise that Pakatan Harapan’s allegations against him are nothing but slander, a day after his SRC International Sdn Bhd trial began.
The former prime minister said this is apparent based on the warm reception he gets at meet-the-people events, adding that many have apologised for having condemned him over the claims.
“Many people have apologised to me. Earlier, when I was leaving the surau, someone whispered to me, ‘I’m sorry for having insulted you. Now I know the allegations aren’t true’. I forgave the person.
“I suggest we set up an ‘apology room’ for those who want to apologise to me,” he said sarcastically at a ‘Santai bersama Bossku’ (Relax with Bossku) programme in Bandar Sri Sendayan, Negri Sembilan, last night.
Najib said had he gotten such good reception before, Barisan Nasional would not have lost the 14th general election.
“It puzzles me that I’m more popular now than when I was prime minister. BN wouldn’t have lost the elections if I were as popular then. Where we went wrong, I don’t know.
“We were slandered, and (PH) made false promises. However, I’m not saying we don’t have our weaknesses.”
The PH government is hypocritical as it lies to the people and does not keep its word, he said.
Najib’s presence at last night’s event was his first on the campaign trail for the Rantau by-election, stumping for BN candidate Mohamad Hasan.
Mohamad earlier this week said he had invited Najib to Sendayan as the former prime minister was responsible for the area’s development, as well as the relocation of an air force base.
“Without the help of the previous government, and specifically, Najib, Sendayan would not have seen development.”
Najib faces three counts of criminal breach of trust, three counts of money laundering and one count of power abuse in relation to RM42 million belonging to SRC International, a former unit of 1Malaysia Development Bhd.
He faces up to 20 years’ jail and a fine upon conviction.
The trial for the seven charges – out of a total of 42 Najib has been slapped with – will continue from April 15 to May 10. – TMI