BY: KARTIK SUBRAMANIAM

Former Malaysian prime minister, Datuk Seri Najin Razak, whose defence was called for by the court in the 1MDB hearing, has apologised to the rakyat that the scandal took place on his watch as head of government.

While some Malaysians are of the opinion that an apology is not enough and he must be punished, when viewed from a larger perspective or by looking at the big picture, there are mitigating factors available for everyone to consider.

But while saying sorry is an easy exercise for anyone who is accused of a crime, it is important in analysing and considering the mitigating factors to learn to temper judgement with mercy for there to be actual justice to take place.

It is important to understand that to err is human, and taking into consideration Najib’s remorse and regret, there is clear evidence that he is suffering pain from being complacent in having discharged his duties while being prime minister.

It is important to take this into account as nobody’s perfect and while the monetary losses suffered by Malaysians in their sovereign wealth fund is huge, there must be some leeway given to Najib and compassion and mercy exercised.

However, in the final analysis, it is not for lay persons and any Malaysian to decide though they may be allowed to express their views and opinion, but in the end it is up to the learned and wise judgement of the presiding judge.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE

** The views expressed on this opinion is of the writer and not the publisher