Govt seeks extradition of former Goldman Sachs executive Tim Leissner to face 1MDB trial

THE Government has formally requested the extradition of former Goldman Sachs executive Tim Leissner from the United States to face trial over his involvement in the 1MDB scandal, the Attorney-General’s Chamber (AGC) confirms today.

A statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Department today said the extradition request was submitted on 14 August 2024 and is currently under consideration by US authorities.

This led to the A-GC explaining that Malaysia has also complied with follow-up requests from the US government, providing additional documentation and information required to support the case.

“Since 2023, when Roger Ng was returned to Malaysian investigators after being tried and convicted in the United States, new information has emerged,” the AGC said.

“Malaysia continues to make efforts to obtain documents that were previously unavailable, as well as to secure the presence of individuals, including Tim Leissner, who have never been tried within Malaysia’s justice system.”

The statement highlighted the continuing financial and reputational impact of the 1MDB scandal on the country.

“Until our efforts are fully completed, Malaysia continues to suffer not only from ongoing financial consequences but also from irrecoverable losses.

“Malaysia will not give up in its pursuit of fair and just recovery from the global banking giant and all those who conspired in this criminal conduct,” the AGC added.

Leissner, a central figure in the scandal, was sentenced in the United States this year to two years’ imprisonment and publicly apologised to the people of Malaysia, expressing regret for his actions.

Authorities in both Malaysia and the US estimate that approximately US$4.5 billion was misappropriated from 1MDB through the sophisticated scheme.

The extradition request underscores Malaysia’s ongoing determination to hold foreign financiers accountable and secure justice for the citizens affected by one of the largest financial frauds in modern history. - December 12, 2025