Ismail Sabri charged in Sessions Court over alleged asset non-declaration
KUALA LUMPUR: Former Prime Minister and UMNO Vice President Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob was charged today (Thursday 27 August 2026) in the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court for failing to declare his assets to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
Under Section 36(2) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009, Ismail Sabri stands accused of willfully failing to comply with a sworn notice from MACC investigators requiring a full declaration of his assets. The undisclosed assets, valued in the millions of ringgit, reportedly include:
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Multi-currency cash holdings totalling over RM 14 million.
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1-kilogram gold bars.
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100-gram silver bars.
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Gold coins, including 5-gram denomination gold coins.
According to the charge sheets, authorities previously seized foreign currency and cash assets tied to the investigation, valued at RM 160,932,906.99. In addition, the seized precious metals, comprising gold bars, silver bars, and gold coins, are currently valued at approximately RM 3 million.
Court Proceedings and Health Complications
The formal indictment follows weeks of intense speculation regarding potential graft charges against top UMNO leaders in connection with ongoing federal financial investigations.
Ismail Sabri’s court appearance was originally scheduled for August 7 but was delayed after he suffered severe chest pains and was admitted to the National Heart Institute (IJN) for medical treatment. Following his discharge, proceedings resumed today, where Ismail Sabri pleaded not guilty to the charge and requested a trial.
The Sessions Court judge granted bail at RM 300,000 with one family member serving as surety. The court opted not to impound his passport. The case has been set for mention on September 29.
