LETTER | The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) expresses its deepest condolences to the family of Zulfarhan Osman Zulkarnain, whose tragic death on June 1, 2017, has profoundly affected the nation.

We acknowledge the recent Court of Appeal decision sentencing six former Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) cadets to death for the murder of Zulfarhan. While we share in the grief and anguish of the family and recognise the severity of the crime, Suhakam stands resolutely against the use of the death penalty.

Suhakam believes that the death penalty is not a just or effective solution. The death penalty is a form of punishment that is irreversible and does not allow for the possibility of rehabilitation in the event of judicial error.

It also goes against the global movement towards the abolition of capital punishment, which many countries have recognized as inhumane and a violation of fundamental human rights.

The decision by the Court of Appeal to sentence the six cadets to death marks a sad and solemn moment in Malaysia's judicial history.

In this context, it is essential to emphasise the need for rehabilitation. Rehabilitation can transform offenders into responsible and constructive members of society.

This approach not only addresses the root causes of such violent behaviour but also helps prevent future occurrences by promoting understanding, empathy, and social responsibility among offenders.

Our commitment to human rights mandates that we advocate for the abolition of the death penalty. Suhakam calls on the government to reconsider the use of capital punishment and to continue working towards a justice system that is fair, humane, and just for all.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.