We are greatly disappointed and regret the heavy-handed sentence handed down to Alan Shadrake by the Singapore judiciary.

This is a major blow to Singapore's international credibility as a country that respects the rule of law and has only served to emphasise the lack of compassion in its judiciary.

Mr Shadrake should not have been persecuted for the publication of his book. His book should have instead been allowed to be publicly discussed and debated over.

The judgement had failed to consider that the book dealt with serious topics such as the death penalty as administrated by the Singapore justice system, no casual reader would or should read it with an uncritical mind as one would with a book of fiction.

The persecution of Mr Shadrake, a freelance journalist, confirms once again that freedom of expression in Singapore remains repressed.

The freedom to express one's thoughts and criticisms should be respected and the freedom to gain access to and share alternative opinions should also be allowed.

The lack of compassion on the part of the judiciary is especially compelling considering that Alan Shadrake is a 76 year old person who is sick and weak, with limited resources.

Singapore's authorities, much as they disagree with the publication of his book, should take it easy and treat Alan gently. The sentence passed is cruel and harsh on Mr Shadrake.

This has put Singapore in the international spotlight once again for the wrong reasons.

The best course of action should then have been to talk to the 76 year old, give him a hot meal, hold his hand and walk him home - and world opinion would have appreciated the act of kindness.

Instead, this uncalled for bullying only earned more loud cries against the unfair treatment of a grandfather sentenced to six weeks in jail, a $20,000 fine as well as court expenses of $55,000.

Moreover, he faces additional charges of criminal contempt of court that could result in a two year jail term. Is the lack of compassion on the part of the judiciary a fair reflection of the policy of the Singapore Parliament?

The Alan Shadrake case should not have gone to the court, he should have been gently sent home.

  Sinapan Samydorai is Think Centre's director of Asean Affairs.