Penampang Couple Jailed for 34 Years in Shocking Domestic Helper Murder Case – Cruelty Details Emerge
KOTA KINABALU, June 20 – A Sabah contractor and his ex-wife have been handed down a collective 68-year prison sentence after being convicted of the brutal murder of a domestic helper in Penampang. The High Court in Kota Kinabalu delivered the verdict on Friday, sentencing each individual to 34 years behind bars, marking a significant outcome in a case that has gripped the nation.
The couple were found guilty of murdering the Indonesian national, whose identity has been withheld to protect her family. The trial revealed a harrowing account of prolonged cruelty and abuse endured by the victim, painting a disturbing picture of the conditions in which she was forced to live and work.
A Disturbing Timeline of Abuse
The prosecution presented compelling evidence detailing the systematic mistreatment of the domestic helper. This included instances of physical assault, verbal abuse, and denial of adequate food and medical care. Witnesses testified to the couple’s controlling behaviour and the isolating environment they created for the victim, preventing her from contacting her family or seeking help.
The court heard that the victim's body was discovered in a state of severe decomposition, indicating that the murder had occurred some time before it was reported. This delay in reporting further highlighted the couple's efforts to conceal their crime and the fear the victim likely experienced throughout her ordeal.
Justice for the Victim
Judge Alsup, delivering the sentence, emphasized the gravity of the crime and the need to send a strong message that such acts of violence and exploitation will not be tolerated. The lengthy sentence reflects the court's recognition of the profound pain and suffering inflicted upon the victim and her family.
“This was a case of egregious cruelty and disregard for human life,” the judge stated. “The defendants’ actions were reprehensible, and the sentence must serve as a deterrent to others who may contemplate similar acts.”
The case has sparked widespread condemnation across Malaysia, with calls for stricter laws and increased protection for domestic workers. Many are highlighting the vulnerability of migrant workers and the need for greater awareness of the signs of abuse. Support groups and NGOs are urging employers to ensure fair treatment and safe working conditions for all domestic staff.
The Attorney General's Chambers has confirmed that they will review the possibility of appealing the sentence to ensure it adequately reflects the severity of the crime. Meanwhile, the victim’s family in Indonesia has expressed gratitude for the justice served, though they acknowledge that no sentence can truly compensate for the loss of their loved one.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and abuse. It underscores the urgent need for ongoing efforts to raise awareness, enforce labour laws, and provide support for those who have suffered at the hands of their employers.