Recently, it was reported that the government has decided to abolish the death sentence. The decision received mixed reactions from Malaysians, but most are against the abolishment.

On Wednesday, the question that’s on everyone’s mind – "what will replace the death penalty?" - has finally been answered.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Liew Vui Keong told The Star that the capital punishment will be replaced with a minimum of 30 years of imprisonment.

30 years in prison = capital punishment?
“There will be no retrospective effect for those serving their sentences. Their jail term will run from the date the pardons board commutes their death sentences to life imprisonment,” Liew said.

Prior to the new ruling, a study by the Attorney General’s Chambers titled “Death Penalty in Malaysia and the Way Forward” has been carried out. The findings of the study recommended that the death penalty to be abolished altogether.

“There was no proof to show the death penalty served as an effective deterrent,” Liew added.

So, do you think that the death penalty is equivalent to 31 years’ worth of imprisonment? Or should the capital punishment be retained?

Tell us your thoughts in the comments section below.