KUALA LUMPUR, 7 March 2026 – Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and the country’s police chief are facing a lawsuit filed by the family of former finance minister Daim Zainuddin, escalating tensions surrounding an investigation into an alleged plot to destabilise the government.
The suit was filed by Daim’s widow Na’imah Abdul Khalid and their sons, who accuse the government of abuse of power and defamation after authorities suggested that individuals linked to the family were involved in a conspiracy to undermine national stability.
Lawsuit Challenges Allegations of Coup Plot
The legal action seeks a declaration that the investigation into the alleged plot is unlawful and politically motivated, while also asking the court to halt the probe.
Police previously announced they were investigating a suspected conspiracy involving an influential local figure and an international media agency that allegedly aimed to “topple the government and sabotage national stability.”
Although authorities have not publicly named suspects, Daim’s family said it is widely understood that the investigation is targeting Na’imah and their children.
Na’imah has strongly denied the allegations, questioning the credibility of claims that surfaced from an unverified police report circulating online, and insisting that neither she nor her family were involved in any such plot.
Political Context Behind the Dispute
The controversy emerged after Anwar told Parliament that a suspect linked to a corruption investigation had allegedly hired an international public relations firm to orchestrate a campaign aimed at discrediting Malaysia’s institutions and undermining the government.
According to Anwar, the campaign sought to influence foreign media, banks and policymakers while casting doubt on government agencies, including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
The probe is being conducted under laws related to activities detrimental to parliamentary democracy, offences that can carry up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Legal and Political Implications
The lawsuit introduces a new legal front in what has already become a politically sensitive issue. Daim, who died in 2024, had been a powerful figure in Malaysian politics and a close ally of former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad.
Before his death, Daim had also been under investigation for alleged corruption, accusations he dismissed as politically motivated.
Political analysts say the case could become a significant legal test of the government’s handling of investigations involving prominent figures and alleged political conspiracies.
For now, authorities have not publicly responded to the lawsuit, while police investigations into the alleged plot remain ongoing.
