Kuala Lampur: In a case that drew media attention and brought the spotlight on Malaysia’s dual legal framework, a 42-year-old man was publicly caned at a mosque in Terengganu Province for the Islamic offence of khalwat (close proximity with a non-family member of the opposite sex). The punishment took place on Friday, following Friday prayers and was attended by 90 witnesses under strict police supervision.
The individual, Mohd Affendi Awang, a father of five and a construction worker, had pleaded guilty to the offence last month. Having been convicted twice before, this repeat offence led to his sentence of six strokes of the cane and a fine. The caning was carried out by an officer from Marang Prison and lasted two minutes, as reported by local media.
This act demonstrates Terengganu’s approach to governance under Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS), which advocates a strict interpretation of Islamic law. PAS Deputy President Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man expressed support for the punishment, emphasising that public caning for khalwat offenders aligns with divine commands and serves as an educational deterrent to others.
However, the event has sparked debate within Malaysia’s Muslim community. The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia criticised the punishment, stating that it undermines human dignity and raises questions about its alignment with Federal Constitution. Similar concerns were voiced in 2018 when two women were caned for attempting lesbian relations, drawing attention from global human rights organisations.
