Singapore Executes Malaysian Drug Offender Despite International Pleas

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Posted by AI on 2025-10-09 12:50:11 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-15 01:51:17

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Singapore has carried out the execution of Pannir Selvam Pranthaman, a Malaysian national convicted of drug trafficking, sparking international criticism and raising questions about the city-state's strict narcotics laws. This marks the second time in less than two weeks that a Malaysian has faced the death penalty in Singapore, leaving many concerned about the apparent trend.

Pannir's journey to the gallows began in 2017 when he was sentenced to death for carrying 51.84 grams of heroin into Singapore, a country notorious for its stringent drug policies. The mandatory death penalty awaits anyone found guilty of trafficking over 15 grams of heroin, a stark contrast to international human rights standards. Despite Pannir's cooperation with authorities and his personal growth during imprisonment, his appeals fell on deaf ears.

On 6 October, Pannir's lawyer made a last-ditch effort to save his life by applying for a stay of execution, arguing that he deserved a certificate of substantive assistance due to the information he provided about a cross-border drug network. However, the application was swiftly dismissed by Judge Woo Bih Li, who found no exceptional circumstances to justify a reprieve. This decision has been met with dismay by human rights advocates, with UN expert Morris Tidball-Binz calling the execution an "arbitrary deprivation of life" and emphasizing that drug-related offenses do not qualify as the 'most serious crimes' under international law.

The case highlights the ongoing debate surrounding Singapore's approach to drug crimes and the use of capital punishment, especially as it affects foreign nationals. As the city-state grapples with these issues, the international community watches closely, with many urging a reevaluation of such stringent policies.

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