PUTRAJAYA – "They'll be released in four years. If they apologise, I'm willing to forgive them, but my son is gone forever."
Hawa Osman, mother of Naval Cadet Officer Zulfarhan Osman Zulkarnain, spoke these words after the Federal Court reinstated the 18-year prison sentence for six former National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM) students.
They were convicted of causing death without intent.
Hawa, 62, who was accompanied by her husband, Zulkarnain Idros, appeared sorrowful after hearing the court's decision.
They had not expected the court to allow the appeal of all the accused responsible for their son's death.
"Previously, two of the accused’s families met us and they themselves said they did not approve of their children’s actions against Zulfarhan.
"I forgive them, but not entirely because we know that my son did nothing wrong to any of the accused," she said.
Meanwhile, Zulkarnain, 61, said it would be best if none of the accused approached him after serving their prison sentences.
"It’s better if they don’t come because old wounds may reopen. The wounds have healed, but the scars remain. This is the best for the peace of mind of both parties,” he said after the proceedings.
On Friday, six former UPNM students, initially sentenced to death for the unintentional killing of Zulfarhan eight years ago, were granted a reprieve when the Federal Court ruled that they serve 18 years in prison instead.
The six are Muhammad Akmal Zuhairi Azmal, Muhammad Azamuddin Mad Sofi, Muhammad Najib Mohd Razi, Muhammad Afif Najmudin Azahat, Mohamad Shobirin Sabri and Abdoul Hakeem Mohd Ali.
The decision was made by a three-judge panel led by Chief Justice of Malaya Datuk Seri Hasnah Mohammed Hashim after allowing their appeal to set aside the conviction and death sentence.