Syed Saddiq, family performs 'sujud syukur' after Court of Appeal acquits him of all charges
The Muar MP along with his father and mother, was seen offering the act of gratitude as they exited the courtroom, with singer-actress Bella Astillah and others observing the moment.
PUTRAJAYA – Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman and his family performed a sujud syukur (prostration of gratitude) at the Court of Appeal here today, immediately after he was acquitted of four charges related to the misappropriation of Angkatan Bersatu Anak Muda (Armada) funds.
The Muar Member of Parliament, along with his father and mother, was seen offering the act of gratitude as they exited the courtroom, with singer-actress Bella Astillah and others observing the moment.
In a press conference, Syed Saddiq expressed his gratitude and said he loved the country more than his own life.
“It has been a long journey and I am grateful that justice is won. I look forward to doing the job, to doing what I was elected to do,” he said.
Syed Saddiq also reflected on the challenges he had faced over the past five years, stating that he would not wish the experience even on his worst enemy.
He said the lengthy legal journey had also witnessed unwavering support from his family, friends and supporters, who never ceased to offer encouragement and prayers.
“I am deeply indebted especially to my parents and family for always providing support.
“To the Muda leadership colleagues and friends who travelled from afar and to those who could not be here but sent their prayers and greetings virtually, I extend my heartfelt thanks,” he said when met by the media today.
Syed Saddiq also expressed his deep appreciation for the initiative by several parties who organised virtual Yasin recitations over the past few days.
“For the past three to four nights, there have been online sessions on TikTok and Zoom for Yasin recitations. I am truly touched and indebted, because in this world of politics, I am just a small figure.
“But because of all your support and encouragement, I remained resilient and able to keep moving forward despite any obstacles and challenges,” he said.
Commenting further, the former Youth and Sports Minister stressed that he was committed to clearing his name through legal channels.
“My hope today, after five years, is simply that the truth prevails. I have been able to clear my name, just as I promised, through the court.
“I respect and uphold this institution because it is the best platform to clear one’s name. judged based on facts and data and at the same time, judged by Allah SWT,” he said.
Meanwhile, his mother, Sharifah Mahani Syed Abdul Aziz, said that five years was not a short time, and at times she wanted her son to step away from politics.
“Sometimes, as a mother, I want to tell him to stop and not get involved in politics anymore because the situation is difficult and many people don't cooperate.
“But Saddiq’s spirit is strong – for Malaysia, for the people, for the country and for religion. As a mother, I make sure he fulfils his trust successfully,” she said.
Sharifah Mahani also called on the public to pray for Syed Saddiq so that he could continue to serve the people.
“For those who have wronged my son, I pray that Allah grants them guidance. Life is temporary, it’s not forever, so don’t wrong others. I forgive the mistreatment done to my son.
“Remember, we are all just ordinary humans. Let’s cooperate so that his responsibilities can be carried out,” she said.
His father, Syed Abdul Rahman, thanked Malaysians and supporters abroad for their encouragement and expressed gratitude for today’s decision.
Earlier, it was reported that Syed Saddiq walked out of court a free man after the Court of Appeal acquitted him of all four charges of abetting in criminal breach of trust (CBT), misappropriation of property, and money laundering involving Armada party funds.
In a unanimous decision, a three-judge panel comprising Datuk Ahmad Zaidi Ibrahim, Datuk Azman Abdullah and Datuk Noorin Badaruddin allowed the former youth and sports minister’s appeal and overturned the conviction and sentence handed down by the Kuala Lumpur High Court on Nov 9, 2023.
The High Court had sentenced Syed Saddiq, 32, to seven years’ imprisonment, two strokes of the cane, and a RM10 million fine after finding him guilty on all four abetment charges involving Armada funds.
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