Zaid Asks Whether Whipping Is Necessary In The Syed Sadiq Case

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FORMER law minister and lawyer Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has described the sentence handed down to Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman as “excessive and harsh” questioning the necessity of severe punishment for the young politician.
In a statement, Zaid praised Syed Saddiq, calling him an “exceptionally clever and talented young man” with a rare passion for public service. “His passion for public service is hard to find in another young person,” Zaid said.
Acknowledging that Syed Saddiq had made mistakes, Zaid emphasised that no one is without fault. “So he made mistakes, but who didn’t?” he asked.
Zaid was particularly critical of the inclusion of whipping as part of the punishment, calling it a cruel relic of a bygone era.
“Whipping is necessary in this case? This cruel form of punishment was introduced seven hundred years ago in England, where they would tie the offender to a tree and flog him until it was bloody. It was a spectacle for those who relish seeing people in pain and blood,” he said.
He argued that disproportionate punishment undermines rehabilitation efforts.
“Does punishment have to be that severe for someone to learn from his mistake? When punishment is disproportionate, it has the opposite effect of rehabilitating him. Isn’t sentencing all about proper rehabilitation so the offender can continue to have a meaningful life and contribute to society?” Zaid added.
Expressing hope for leniency, Zaid concluded, “I hope there will be a reprieve for you, Syed.”
Syed Saddiq, a prominent young political figure, has been at the centre of public debate following his conviction and sentencing, with many calling for a reassessment of the penalties imposed.
- Focus Malaysia

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