Fugitive Financier Jho Low Seeks U.S. Pardon Amid Ongoing Global 1MDB Scandal Investigations
May 13, 2026
Jho Low, a fugitive Malaysian financier, has filed for a presidential pardon with the U.S. president after completing his sentence, a move reported by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Investigators say the pursuit of Low Taek Jho remains a priority, with police continuing active inquiries.
A pardon, if granted, could remove U.S. criminal charges, according to reporting that cites sources familiar with the matter.
Malaysia continues to cooperate with international law enforcement and maintains ongoing investigations through cross-border intelligence sharing.
The incident is being covered globally, with AFP providing wide-ranging context on the scandal.
Senior police officials described the case as highly sensitive and declined to discuss details publicly after a two-day special dialogue in Kuala Lumpur.
The 1MDB saga triggered political upheaval in Malaysia and contributed to the 2018 defeat of the ruling coalition, with convictions of two former Goldman Sachs bankers linked to the case.
The scandal involved widespread financial misconduct, including luxury purchases and funding of The Wolf of Wall Street, highlighting global ramifications.
Authorities have previously suggested Low might be in China, though Beijing has denied this.
As of 2023, Malaysia’s prime minister indicated ongoing talks with other countries to speed Low’s return, without naming the nations.
Investigators say illicit funds financed global luxury acquisitions, including a yacht, real estate, Monet and Van Gogh works, and the film The Wolf of Wall Street.
Leonardo DiCaprio testified about Low’s lavish spending as part of the broader investigation.
Summary based on 9 sources
Get a daily email with more World News stories
Sources

The Guardian • May 13, 2026
1MDB financier Jho Low seeks pardon from Donald Trump
Breitbart • May 13, 2026
Fugitive financier sought in Malaysian fund scandal seeks Trump's pardon
Digital Journal • May 13, 2026
Fugitive financier sought in Malaysian fund scandal seeks Trump’s pardon
The Edge Malaysia • May 13, 2026
Jho Low investigation ongoing, says IGP