The former PM tells court his role in SRC was limited to approvals and veto powers, denying he initiated any director appointments.
KUALA LUMPUR: Former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak told the High Court his role in SRC International Sdn Bhd was limited to giving approval and using veto powers.
Najib, 72, said he did not start any appointments or amendments in the company.
He said he merely approved the appointment of board members presented to him.
Najib stated he was not involved in proposing or selecting candidates.
He was referred to a letter dated Aug 1, 2011, showing his approval of five board members.
“I am exercising my veto power under Article 67 of the SRC Memorandum and Articles of Association, but I did not initiate them,” Najib said under cross-examination.
The cross-examination was conducted by SRC counsel Kwan Will Sen in the RM42 million civil suit.
To a question on evidence, Najib answered he could not show the director’s appointment was not initiated by him.
“I cannot show you anything as such; however, I can testify that I did not know some of these individuals personally,” he said.
He added that management had to source and name who they wanted as directors.
“I get to make the final call,” Najib said while adding he was not familiar with one director, Nik Faisal Ariff Kamil.
He said Nik Faisal was recommended by management for being suitably qualified.
When put to him that approving all five directors meant he controlled the board, Najib disagreed.
The former Pekan MP said the power to reject a proposal was not the same as making one.
He also rejected the suggestion his position allowed him to direct SRC’s affairs.
Najib insisted management decisions were made independently by the company.
The suit was filed in 2021 by SRC and its subsidiary, Gandingan Mentari Sdn Bhd.
They seek a declaration that Najib is liable for the receipt of RM42 million.
The claim also includes damages for knowing receipt, dishonest assistance, misfeasance and abuse of power.
SRC previously removed six of its directors from the lawsuit.
It retained Najib as the sole defendant, but the High Court later granted him permission to issue third-party notices against them.
The hearing before Justice Datuk Raja Ahmad Mohzanuddin Shah Raja Mohzan continues on Jan 21.
