$53m cash, 16kg gold bullion: Malaysia's former PM Ismail Sabri charged under anti-graft law

Malaysia's former prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob was charged in court on Thursday (Aug 27) for allegedly failing to fully declare his assets, including cash and gold, to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

The member of parliament for Bera in Pahang pleaded not guilty after the charge was read out to him at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court, according to Malaysian news agency The Star.

After his short term as prime minister from August 2021 to November 2022, Ismail Sabri faced corruption and money laundering allegations.

In 2025, he was named a suspect in an ongoing corruption probe involving RM700 million (S$220 million) in government funds, reported CNA.

The money was allegedly spent as part of his administration's Keluarga Malaysia (Malaysian family) promotional campaign introduced in his inaugural speech as prime minister.

The MACC had earlier seized RM170 million cash in local and foreign currencies and 16kg of pure gold bullion, valued at RM7 million, reported The Straits Times.

Four of Ismail Sabri's former officers were also arrested in connection with the investigation.

On Thursday, the former prime minister arrived clad in a black suit at about 8.35am, accompanied by his wife Muhaini Zainal Abidin and Subang UMNO chief Dr Armand Azha Abu Hanifah, The Star reported.

About 50 people had reportedly gathered outside the Sessions Court as early as 7am to show their support.

Health issues

Court proceedings for the case was previously slated on Aug 7 but was postponed due to the 66-year-old's health complications.

Ismail Sabri has reportedly successfully undergone a leadless pacemaker implantation procedure for an abnormal heart rhythm.

He was granted bail of RM300,000 and the case will be mentioned in court again on Sept 29, The Star reported.

If convicted, he could face up to five years in jail and a RM100,000 fine.

Ismail Sabri is Malaysia's third former prime minister to face a corruption investigation, following Najib Razak and Muhyiddin Yassin.

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laili.abdeen@asiaone.com