After nearly half a decade of legal battles, Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman walked out of the Palace of Justice in Putrajaya as a free man today.
Syed Saddiq’s freedom was affirmed after a three-panel judge, in a split 2-1 decision, dismissed the prosecution's appeal against his acquittal on charges linked to misappropriation of funds from Bersatu Youth.
Despite the happy tidings, the significance of the moment appeared to overwhelm the young politician.
Seeming visibly emotional after the proceedings, Syed Saddiq fought back tears and took several moments to gather his thoughts before addressing reporters at the courthouse.
“It’s very hard to put it into words, to be very honest. It is a combination of a sense of relief and, at the same time, encouragement, motivation and reminder; not only as a Malaysian but as a policy maker,” he said, while reflecting on the six-year ordeal.
The ordeal, he added, had taken a toll not only on himself but also on those closest to him, including his parents, family members, friends, and political colleagues.
Throughout the process, Syed Saddiq emphasised that seeking a shortcut was never an option, believing he was on the side of the truth that would eventually prevail.
He also attested that the ruling affirmed his commitment to champion judicial independence.
“The ark of justice may be long, but it will bend towards the truth, regardless.
“I feel that today’s decision has brought me a sense of awareness and a realisation of the need to uphold the nation's justice system.
“I bear no grudges whatsoever, and at the same time, I would like to thank the judges, from the High Court to the Federal Court, for their service and commitment to ensure that the judiciary is strong, safe and independent, with great policies coming from parliamentarians like me,” he said.
He conveyed his gratitude for today’s outcome, recognising that the decision has taught him an invaluable lesson.
“When you are pushed to the corner, when you see no hope and no light at the end of the tunnel, do not ever abandon your principles, integrity and dignity for an easy way out,” said Syed Saddiq.
Future endeavours
The weight of the moment was also evident among members of Syed Saddiq’s defence team, led by Hisyam Teh Pok Teik, who thanked Syed Saddiq and his family for their trust in the team throughout the proceedings.
Hisyam also wished the lawmaker well for the future.
Co-counsel Ambiga Sreenivasan noted that the case had effectively put parts of Syed Saddiq's life on hold for six years, adding that she looked forward to seeing him return to public service.
“The one thing you know, and you feel in your bones, is when justice is served, and I think today we all feel that," she said.
Questions later turned to what comes next for the 34-year-old politician, whose future had become uncertain while the case was ongoing.
Syed Saddiq indicated that he would take some time to focus on his family and personal life before deciding on his next steps.
“Today, I just want to spend a lot of time with my family. I also want to sort a lot of my personal life in order,” he said.
He also expressed hope that no one, including his political rivals, would have to endure a similar experience.
“I hope that no one, not even my worst political nemesis, would go through what I did. Because at the end of the day, no matter the opinion or party, we will eventually come together because we are citizens who love our country,” he said. - Mkini
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