Muar Member of Parliament (MP) Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman will have to wait a bit longer to learn his fate regarding the prosecution’s final appeal against his acquittal.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, the highly anticipated verdict has been postponed to 13 July 2026.
Judge’s medical leave delays decision
The delay came after one of the three judges on the Federal Court panel, Datuk Che Mohd Ruzima Ghazali, was unable to attend the proceedings due to taking two days of medical leave.
Court of Appeal President Datuk Seri Abu Bakar Jais, the only judge present in court, revealed that the panel had already reached its decision, but unforeseen circumstances meant the judgment could not be delivered today.
“We were actually ready with the decision, but unfortunately, this unexpected situation occurred today. We are prepared to deliver the judgment on 13 July,” he said, as quoted by Berita Harian and Sinar Harian.
Details of the appeal
The prosecution is seeking to reinstate the High Court’s ruling, which, on 9 November 2023, sentenced the former minister to seven years’ imprisonment, two strokes of the cane, and a RM10 million fine.
This followed a ruling finding him guilty on four charges involving criminal breach of trust, dishonest misappropriation of property, and money laundering linked to ARMADA funds.
High-profile court appearance
Earlier this morning (30 June), Syed Saddiq arrived at court at approximately 8:50 AM, accompanied by his mother, Shariffah Mahani Syed Abdul Aziz, as public attention focused on what was expected to be a landmark decision.
His fiancée, actress Bella Astillah, was also spotted at the court. Last week, Syed Saddiq hinted that their wedding depends on the final verdict of the case.
Stay tuned to WORLD OF BUZZ for the latest updates.
Also read: Here’s a Breakdown of the 4 Charges That Got Syed Saddiq 7 Years in Jail
