Capital Murder Prosecution

Death Penalty Averted

Vulnerability Defence with High-Level International Engagement by President

Wilfrida Soik, an Indonesian national, was charged in Malaysia with murder, an offence carrying the mandatory death penalty. The matter attracted significant international attention, including concern reported by church and human-rights sources, given issues raised publicly regarding her vulnerability and mental condition.

The case proceeded before the High Court in Kota Bharu. In April 2014, the High Court acquitted Ms Soik, finding that she was of unsound mind at the material time and that the legal requirements for criminal responsibility were not established. The prosecution appealed. In August 2015, the Court of Appeal upheld the acquittal, bringing the proceedings to a close.

Ms Soik was represented in proceedings that drew high-level international attention, including the involvement of His Excellency Prabowo Subianto, now President of the Republic of Indonesia.

Related Media Coverage

Antara News
A death penalty threatens an Indonesian worker in Malaysia
La Stampa Vatican Insider
Disabled girl risks death sentence
Fides News Agency
Church and NGOs take field to save Wilfrida
The Star
Indonesian presidential hopeful lends a hand in maid case
Malay Mail
Ordered to enter defence on murder charge
The Jakarta Post
Wilfrida escapes death penalty in Malaysia
New Straits Times
Maid murder acquittal upheld
ABC News Australia
Indonesian maid escapes death sentence in Malaysia
UCA News
Indonesian migrant worker released from death row in Malaysia

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