Justice Ahmad Bache, in dismissing the application, said the sessions court did not err in making an order for Naimah, the wife of former finance minister Daim Zainuddin, to surrender her passport pending disposal of the trial.

On Jan 23, Naimah claimed trial before the sessions court to a charge of failing to comply with the terms of an asset declaration notice under the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act.

She was accused of failing to declare her ownership of companies, several plots of land here and in Penang, as well as two vehicles.

Naimah was allowed bail of RM250,000 in one surety. Her passport was surrendered to the court as part of her bail conditions.

Ahmad said the court took note that Daim, who was also charged, was not told to hand over his passport as he was not well and might need medical attention overseas.

“I agree with the prosecution’s concern on flight risk possibilities.

“If the passport is with the accused (Naimah), there is a possibility that both of them will not return home to face trial,” he said.

He also said that once a person is charged in court, he or she has no absolute right to their passport.

“With respect to Toh Puan (Naimah), she is now an accused person,” he added.

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