Former premier Najib Abdul Razak will be taken back to Kajang Prison for Friday prayers today before returning to the Palace of Justice, where the High Court will resume at 3pm to deliver a verdict over his 25 1MDB-linked charges.

Judge Collin Lawrence Sequerah, who is presiding over the hearing, called for a break at 12.30pm. Shortly after, Najib’s defence team, prosecutors, as well as supporters, were seen leaving the building.

He also requested the Prison Department to ensure Najib’s return by 3pm.

In adjourning the session, Sequerah said he would need approximately another 90 minutes to finish reading his verdict later.

Also seen leaving was a vehicle with Najib’s wife, Rosmah Mansor and his children, who earlier attended the proceedings.

Among Umno leaders seen today are former Pahang menteri besar Adnan Yaakob and Subang Umno chief Arman Azha Abu Hanifah.

About 100m down the road from the building, some 50 Umno members and Najib’s supporters also left the area.

While waiting for Najib to leave earlier, a supporter from Sabah led the group to chant Sabah Umno’s election war cry, “Radu tatap radu!” (lawan tetap lawan, or keep on fighting).

Some among the crowd were also heard insisting they had come on their own volition and were not paid or compensated to come.

Najib was accused of four counts of power abuse and 21 money laundering charges in 2018. The trial began the following year.

1MDB verdict: Court rules Arab donation letters were forged

1MDB verdict: Court rules Arab donation letters were forged

Najib's supporters in high spirits despite low turnout

Najib's supporters in high spirits despite low turnout

Crucial week: Will Najib ring in New Year at home or behind bars?

Crucial week: Will Najib ring in New Year at home or behind bars?

M'sia secures return of over RM122m in 1MDB-linked art - MACC

M'sia secures return of over RM122m in 1MDB-linked art - MACC

Ng loses bid to overturn US court's 1MDB conviction

Ng loses bid to overturn US court's 1MDB conviction