Alternatives to death penalty reviewed, says Azalina

PETALING JAYA: Laws related to the abolition of the death penalty are expected to be tabled in Parliament in February next year, says Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.

The Law and Institutional Reforms Minister said the implementation of alternate sentences proposed for 34 offences that carry the death penalty had been reviewed by the Attorney General’s Chambers.

Azalina said this covered 11 offences under the Penal Code and Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act 1971 and 23 offences where the death penalty is at the court’s discretion under the Penal Code, Arms Act 1960, Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act 1971, and Kidnapping Act 1961.

“The government has also agreed to amend related Acts and will present the following – Penal Code (Amendment) 2022; Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) 2022; Criminal Justice Act (Amendment) 2022; Kidnapping Act (Amendment) 2022; Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act (Amendment) 2022; Arms Act (Amendment) 2022; and the Dangerous Drugs Act (Amendment) 2022.

“The moratorium for those currently facing the death penalty also remains until all amendments to related Acts are carried out,” she said in a statement.

The minister added that the moratorium would directly affect 1,327 inmates who were handed the death sentence.

“For those yet to be charged, alternate sentences to the death penalty can be retrospectively handed out,” she said.

Azalina also said that amendments to these Acts would not abolish the death penalty completely but instead give discretion to the court.

“The proposal to provide alternate sentences is the government’s commitment towards ensuring the abolishment of the death penalty is studied thoroughly across all aspects.

“This is to ensure any future actions will bring a positive impact to the country,” she said.

Azalina added that the government was also considering further studies on more effective sentencing policies, caning and reforms in a move to reduce congestion in prisons.

“Focus will also be given towards rehabilitation and restorative justice,” she said.