Syed Saddiq thanks Bella Astillah, mother for court support
Bella Astillah stands by Syed Saddiq in court
PUTRAJAYA – “Thank you to the extraordinary woman.”
That was the expression of gratitude from Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman when asked about the person who accompanied him in court today.
Syed Saddiq conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to singer and actress Bella Astillah, who has stood by him both today and in previous proceedings, offering her full support.
“As many of you know, she’s an extraordinary woman. Thank you for being here and for the support and encouragement you've shown. I truly appreciate it,” he said during a press conference held outside the Court of Appeal on Thursday.
He also paid tribute to his mother, Sharifah Mahani Syed Abdul Aziz, referring to her as his true “iron lady”, for her unwavering strength and resilience throughout his legal journey.
“Let’s not forget the iron woman by my side. She’s been with me through it all—not once, not twice, but three times since 2020. She’s a real fighter.
“She continued supporting me through investigations, even while battling cancer—twice. She’s a two-time cancer survivor. So if anyone asks where I find the strength to keep fighting, just look at the woman standing next to me,” he said.
His mother, Sharifah Mahani, also offered words of gratitude for the overwhelming support they’ve received from the public.
“Thank you for the support and the constant prayers.
“As a mother watching my son, Syed Saddiq, go through this struggle, it’s difficult to put into words. I only hope that more young people will rise and fight for justice and truth,” she said.
Previously, the court had fixed March 19 and 20 for the hearing of the appeal.
However, after two days of submissions, proceedings were adjourned to April 17 after deputy public prosecutor Datuk Wan Shaharuddin Wan Ladin informed the court he was unable to continue due to a sore throat.
Syed Saddiq, 33, had been sentenced by the High Court to seven years in jail, two strokes of the cane and a RM10 million fine for four offences involving funds from Armada.
He was found guilty of all four charges: one charge of abetting then Armada assistant treasurer Rafiq Hakim Razali in committing criminal breach of trust by withdrawing RM 1 million of party funds, one charge of misappropriation of party funds of RM120,000 and two money laundering charges.
After hearing arguments from both parties, Judge Ahmad Zaidi set April 24 for case management to set a date for the verdict.
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