Malaysia is urging Singapore to show mercy on a Malaysian citizen who is scheduled to be executed on Friday (Nov 22) for drug trafficking.

In a statement today, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Liew Vui Keong (photo) said the person was convicted and sentenced to death by the Singapore High Court in March 2017 for trafficking in about 16gm of heroin. His plea for clemency was subsequently rejected in early July 2019.

He highlighted the fact that Malaysia imposes a strict moratorium on all executions in this country for crimes committed for drug trafficking pending a comprehensive review, in line with established international standards.

"It is, therefore, heart-wrenching to see a fellow citizen to be executed for circumstances entirely uncompelling, given the close proximity of our countries," he said.

To eradicate drug trafficking, Liew said, it is the kingpins and true masters of the trade who must face the full brunt of the law.

"Although drug mules commit an offence, it warrants no more than a term of imprisonment," he said, contending that it is unjust and disproportionate for drug mules to be sent to the gallows.

"Justice must be tempered with mercy, and I implore Singapore to do so," Liew concluded.

- Bernama