Life and Death: How Malaysia's Shift on Capital Punishment Impacts Society
A Significant Change
Malaysia made a big change in 2023. They stopped making the death penalty automatic for certain crimes. This move is a chance to look at how capital punishment affects people's health and well-being.
The Ripple Effect
The death penalty doesn't just hurt the person sentenced to die. It also affects:
- Their families
- People who work in prisons
- The whole community
Imagine waiting for years, not knowing if a loved one will live or die. That kind of stress can make people sick.
The Problem of Injustice
Some people might get the death penalty even if they didn't do anything wrong. This is a big problem. It's called a miscarriage of justice. It can happen because of:
- Bad luck
- Bad lawyers
- Racism
When this happens, it's not just a mistake. It's a tragedy that hurts everyone.
Disproportionate Impact
The death penalty also hits some groups harder than others. Women, LGBTQ+ people, and people with disabilities often face more discrimination in the courtroom. This makes them more likely to get the death penalty, even if they're not more likely to commit crimes.
Reevaluating Justice
Some people think the death penalty is about justice. But what if it's actually making things worse? What if it's making people sick, breaking up families, and hurting communities? Maybe it's time to think differently. Maybe it's time to focus on healing instead of hurting.
The Path Forward
Malaysia's change is a step in the right direction. But it's not enough. They need to keep going. They need to make sure:
- Everyone is treated fairly
- No one else gets hurt by this system
