In an interview with Sin Chew Daily, the home minister said it is not unusual for prisoners in Kajang to further their studies while serving time.

“Najib is now filling his time by continuing his studies at the post-graduate level.

“In Kajang prison, there are even those who have completed their Masters and PhD. Many people do not know this,” he added.

On July 28, 2020, Najib was convicted by the High Court for abuse of power, money laundering and criminal breach of trust (CBT) over SRC International funds amounting to RM42 million. He was sentenced to 12 years in jail and fined RM210 million.

On Dec 8, 2021, the Court of Appeal dismissed his application to reverse the High Court ruling and sentence.

On Aug 23 last year, Najib was sent to Kajang prison to serve his sentence immediately after the Federal Court upheld his conviction.

Despite being in prison, Najib is still actively sharing his thoughts and opinions on what is happening in the country.

When asked whether the former Pekan MP had access to social media, Saifuddin said he did not.

“He is physically imprisoned in Kajang, but he has his own media team. I am told they have his username and password and they can post his thoughts on social media.

“But whether he has access to gadgets, the answer is no. Take it from me, the most authoritative person on this matter.”

Saifuddin said Najib expressing his views were no different to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim issuing statements when he was in Sungai Buloh prison (between February 2015 and May 2018).

“Just like Anwar, previously when he was in jail. When he was attending court, he would make a spontaneous comment or a note for publication. It’s the same.

“Najib is physically in prison but his mind is still free.”