The former Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, and his wife have called on Malaysians to strengthen their struggle for justice.

Their plea came in a Christmas message released on Friday.

"Today, more than ever before, there is a crying need for all Malaysians to reaffirm their commitment to the struggle for justice. For justice has been trampled upon in this dear land of ours," the statement said.

The BBC's Simon Ingram reports on the adjourned hearing

Wan Azizah Ismail said her husband was appreciative of the moral support Malaysians of all faiths have given him.

"We are confident that with the prayers and support of men and women of peace and goodwill everywhere, truth and justice will triumph over lies and oppression," she said.

The hearing against Mr Anwar was adjiourned on Thursday until Monday after defence lawyers complained at police interference in the case.

They say the police should not have questioned a potential witness, member of parliament Sng Chee Hua, only hours after he was named in court as a participant in a secretly-recorded conversation.

Wan Azizah Ismail: "Truth and justice will triumph over lies and oppression".

Mr Anwar is on trial on four corruption charges related to allegations that he used his position to cover up the claims of sexual misconduct.

He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges and alleged there was a political conspiracy to topple him.

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad sacked Mr Anwar from the government on September 2. He was arrested 18 days later. The Court of Appeal is expected to make a decision soon on Anwar's request for bail.