Murad (not his real name), who spent 23 years in prison after being convicted of killing his employer in 2001, has been granted a royal pardon by Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah of Selangor.
This significant act coincided with the Sultan’s 79th birthday on December 11, 2024. 
Murad, who entered incarceration at just 14, became the first Malaysian prisoner to earn a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) while serving his sentence.
According to Free Malaysia Today (FMT), Murad obtained a PhD in Business Administration after years of dedicated study.
His academic journey began behind bars, where he completed his SPM (Malaysia’s high school examination), followed by a diploma, a bachelor’s degree, and a master’s degree.
The Meaning Behind “Detention at the Ruler’s Pleasure”
Murad’s sentence was different from most others. Instead of a fixed jail term, he was detained under the legal framework known as “detention at the pleasure of the Sultan.”
This provision, specific to minors convicted of serious crimes in Malaysia, means that his release could only occur at the discretion of the state ruler.
Adults convicted of murder, by contrast, face life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Murad served his sentence at Kajang Prison’s Drug Rehabilitation Centre. His release was marked by a ceremony, during which Kajang Prison Director Preshahdin Monshee read out the release warrant.
Expressed Gratitude and Hope for a New Chapter
In a Facebook post by Jabatan Penjara Malaysia (Malaysian Prisons Department), Murad shared his gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to Duli Yang Maha Mulia (DYMM) or His Royal Highness Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj for granting him forgiveness.
He also emphasized the invaluable support from the Malaysian Prisons Department, which allowed him the opportunity and space to continue his education, ultimately achieving a Doctor of Philosophy degree.
Prison Director Preshahdin encouraged Murad to maintain discipline and use his acquired knowledge to rebuild his life. He also assured Murad of the department’s support if needed.
This royal pardon marks a fresh start for Murad, emphasizing the importance of education and discipline in his rehabilitation journey.
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