Malaysia: Former deputy PM freed

By Muhammad Latief

JAKARTA (AA) - Former Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim has just been released from prison on Wednesday after receiving a full pardon, according to a palace statement.

Anwar, who was once current Prime Minister Mahathir Muhamad's former deputy, was jailed for sodomy four years ago.

A jubilant Anwar walked out of Cheras Detention Center in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday.

His lawyer, Sivarasa Rasiah, said the Malaysian king had extended a royal pardon to Anwar and cleared him of all allegations that initially put him in jail.

"The pardon also allows Anward to return to politics," added Rasiah.

In February 2015, Anwar, 70, was found guilty of sodomy and sentenced to five years behind bars.

His release marks the first big success of the newly elected Pakatan Harapan coalition.

Mahathir, 92, has promised to hand over the premiership to Anwar within a year or two.