Does pleading insanity mean you can escape legal punishment?

Being found not guilty in court due to insanity does not mean the defendant is just set free; instead, they are usually committed to mental health facilities, like Hospital Bahagia Ulu Kinta, for the appropriate psychiatric treatment. — Filepic

I am compelled to write about mental illness and criminal responsibility as several readers of this column have shown interest in the matter.

Recent related events in the country even caused the Health Minister to express worry that crimes committed by individuals with mental health issues could lead to inadequate justice for victims and their families.