Muar Member of Parliament, Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, has been sentenced to seven years in prison, two strokes of the cane, and fined RM10 million for abetting criminal breach of trust, misappropriation of property, and money laundering. The High Court judge, Datuk Azhar Abdul Hamid, found the defence unable to cast reasonable doubt on the prosecution’s case. The charges include three years in jail and one stroke of the cane for abetting CBT, two years for misusing property, and two years with a RM5 million fine for each money laundering count. The sentences will run concurrently.
Despite the verdict, the court granted Syed Saddiq’s stay of execution pending appeal at the Court of Appeal. The defence argued for leniency, emphasizing Syed Saddiq’s remorse and his contributions to the nation. Lead defence lawyer Gobind Singh Deo highlighted that Syed Saddiq did not personally benefit from the funds and used them to assist people during the pandemic.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Wan Shaharuddin Wan Ladin urged a deterrent sentence, citing public interest and the need to maintain trust in politicians. The case, involving RM1 million of Bersatu Youth’s funds, has been ongoing since Syed Saddiq was ordered to enter his defence on Oct 28, 2022.
By FCCT Editorial Team
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