Malaysia Takes a Step Towards Human Rights by Ending Mandatory Death Penalty

In a historic move, the Malaysian parliament has passed a bill to abolish the mandatory death penalty for 11 offenses, including drug trafficking, murder, and terrorism. The bill, which the Minister of Law tabled in March, received overwhelming support from both the government and the opposition benches.

The bill will allow judges to exercise discretion in sentencing offenders to either death or life imprisonment, depending on the circumstances of each case. Previously, judges had no choice but to impose the death penalty for these offenses, regardless of mitigating factors, A Bloomberg report revealed.

The bill also provides a review mechanism for those on death row for these offenses. They will have the opportunity to apply for their sentences to be commuted to life imprisonment within one year of the bill coming into force.

The abolition of the mandatory death penalty is a significant step towards respecting human rights and upholding the dignity of life. It also reflects Malaysia’s commitment to aligning its laws with international standards and norms.

The bill is expected to receive royal assent soon and become law. Malaysia will join over 100 countries that have abolished the death penalty in law or practice. It will also pave the way for further reforms to end capital punishment in Malaysia altogether.