What global description did the 1MDB scandal receive?

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The 1MDB Scandal Was Globally Labelled the "Largest Episode of Kleptocracy in the World"

The 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal has been widely described by international observers and the press as the "largest episode of kleptocracy in the world." This characterisation highlights the immense scale and global impact of the financial malfeasance associated with the state fund.
Judicial Description of the Scale of Plunder

Federal Court judge Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah, who presided over the trial, articulated the colossal nature of 1MDB's plunder in his grounds of judgment. He stated that the financial scale of the wrongdoing made Attila the Hun, a notorious fifth-century conqueror, appear like a mere "choirboy" in comparison.
Global Recognition of Kleptocratic Nature

The judge's remarks underscore the international perception of the 1MDB scandal. Its notoriety transcended national borders, leading to widespread global attention and condemnation.
Procedural Aspects of the Trial

The grounds of judgment, spanning 810 pages, also detailed the significant procedural challenges encountered during the trial. These included the involvement of 50 prosecution witnesses and 26 defence witnesses, including the former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak himself. The trial's commencement was delayed from its initial transfer to the Kuala Lumpur High Court on October 31, 2018, to August 19, 2019.
Disruptions and Convictions

Further disruptions to the proceedings arose due to the Covid-19 pandemic, leading to the loss of 19 trial days and the vacation of nine additional dates. Ultimately, Sequerah found Najib guilty on charges related to abuse of power and money laundering involving RM2.27 billion, resulting in a sentence of 15 years' jail and a RM11.38 billion fine, which is currently under appeal.

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What global description did the 1MDB scandal receive?

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