In a statement today, Asyraf said Najib’s apology for his “unintended mistake” shows his “noble and pure personality, and undivided love for the people and country”.

“Umno is certain that the statement comes from a pure conscience, expressing Najib’s sincere feelings.

“The party and all its members pray to Allah that truth and justice will be upheld and the true mastermind in the SRC International and 1MDB cases will be brought to justice as soon as possible,” said Asyraf.

In his apology, Najib said he had reflected on the 1MDB fiasco over the past 26 months, and it pained him that it happened when he was the prime minister and finance minister.

“I would like to apologise unreservedly,” he said in a statement read out by his son, Nizar, at the lobby of the Kuala Lumpur Court Complex yesterday.

Najib also denied being the mastermind or collaborating with fugitive financier Low Taek Jho, better known as Jho Low, in the scheme.

His apology came just a few days before the High Court decides whether he is to enter his defence in a 1MDB corruption case that started five years ago.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also welcomed the apology when asked to comment by reporters after Friday prayers today.