Singapore Executed A Sarawakian Man The Malaysian Government Was Trying To Save
The Malaysian High Commission in Singapore has confirmed the matter earlier today, 22 March.
By Jia Vern Tham — 22 Mar 2019, 12:30 PM
Michael Anak Garing, the Sarawakian man who was on death row in Singapore for murder, has been executed earlier today, 22 March
Malaysiakini reported that Michael was hanged in the Changi Prison this morning.
According to News Straits Times, the Sarawakian's execution was confirmed by the Malaysian High Commission in Singapore.
"His remains are expected to (be sent to) Sibu tomorrow, before being returned to his hometown in Kapit," a spokesman for the High Commission was quoted as saying by New Straits Times.
"We are currently assisting Michael's family members who are here," the spokesman added.
Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad had told a press conference on Wednesday, 20 March, that the government was attempting to save Michael from the gallows
Michael's family had also filed a clemency petition to the President of Singapore to have his sentence commuted to life in prison.
Following his execution, Michael's parents, Ensiring Anak Garman and Garing Anak Kanyan, are reportedly devastated by the news.
"I still do not want to believe (it) despite being told the sentence has been carried out," Michael's relative, who wished not to be named, told New Straits Times.
Michael was convicted of murder in 2015 by the Singapore High Court
He had been involved in a robbery on Kallang Road in May 2010, which led to the death of a 41-year-old construction worker. Three other victims were severely injured.
Meanwhile, another accused, Tony Imba, was sentenced to life in prison with 24 strokes of the cane; while Hairee Landak received 33 years and 24 strokes of the cane.
Donny Meluda, another suspect, was eventually arrested after being on the run for over six years. He was also sentenced to 33 years in jail and 24 strokes of the cane.