Daim’s Widow Plans Gag Order Bid, Claims Anwar’s Remarks Could Prejudice Trial
KUALA LUMPUR — The widow of former finance minister Daim Zainuddin is preparing to file a formal application seeking a gag order against Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, alleging that his past remarks could undermine the fairness of her court case.
Her counsel, Rajesh Nagarajan, told the Sessions Court that Na’imah Abdul Khalid intends to restrain Anwar from making further public statements related to her ongoing trial.
Rajesh said the move follows the publication of at least 17 media articles between January 2024 and July 2025, which he claimed contained sub judice comments capable of influencing public opinion.
“We are concerned that such statements may compromise our client’s right to a fair hearing, particularly when the case is still at a preliminary stage,” he said.
He also pointed out that certain reports allegedly used phrases implying large-scale financial misconduct, which he said indirectly referred to Daim and Na’imah.
According to him, comments attributed to the prime minister carry significant weight and may be perceived as executive interference in judicial matters.
“These narratives can create undue pressure and shape public judgment before the court has had the opportunity to hear the evidence,” he added.
However, Deputy Public Prosecutor Mohamad Fadhly Mohd Zamry said no formal gag order application had been submitted to the prosecution.
He argued that the statements cited were general in nature and did not directly affect court proceedings.
“There is no concrete proof that these remarks have resulted in an unfair trial,” he said, noting that the hearing has yet to begin.
Sessions Court Judge Azura Alwi declined to rule on the oral request and reminded the defence that any gag order must be filed formally and served on the prosecution.
The court fixed March 6 for case management.
Na’imah is currently facing charges for allegedly failing to comply with a notice issued by the Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia (MACC) to declare 12 assets in December 2023.
-wilayah.com.my
