PUTRAJAYA, June 25 — Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman walked free today after the Court of Appeal unanimously overturned his corruption and money laundering convictions, bringing a close to a five-year legal battle he described as “hell I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy.”
The former youth and sports minister was acquitted of all four charges, with the appellate judges finding serious misdirection by the High Court in evaluating evidence and testimonies. In an emotional statement, Syed Saddiq revealed the immense personal toll of the trial, including the relapse of his mother’s cancer, damage to his reputation, and being forced to step down as MUDA president.
“Today is not just about my name being cleared,” he said. “It’s about hope, justice, and not giving up on doing the right thing.” His mother, Sharifah Mahani, also gave a tearful speech, expressing relief and pride in her son’s perseverance.
Justice Noorin Badaruddin, delivering the court’s decision, ruled that there was no evidence of dishonesty or personal gain, and highlighted that the trial judge failed to consider key defence evidence while relying on testimony possibly influenced by pressure from MACC investigators.
Although the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) indicated plans to appeal to the Federal Court, today’s ruling marks a major legal and political victory for Syed Saddiq, who vowed to continue serving the people with integrity.
