14-day appeal period for ex-model over

Kula lumpur, Aug 27: With the 14-day period over, former model Kartika Sari Dewi Shukarno ordered to undergo public caning because of consuming alcohol can no longer appeal against the sentence.

The decision now rests upon Syariah Chief Judge Abdul Hamid Abdul Rahman, who is also the state Syariah Court of Appeal to alter Monday, Jul 20 decision.

Chief Judge Rahman also leads judicial machinery under the Islamic law applicable to the majority Malay Muslims.

However, the state religious department (Jaip) that the appeal can no longer be made. Also no party can request on Kartika's behalf.

Malaysian authorities were keen to avoid Kartika being caned as it would hamper Malaysia's image as a moderate multi-religious society.

Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak suggested on Monday, Aug 24 that Kartika should appeal against the verdict and the authorities could consider it.

Kartika was to be kept at the Kajang women's prison for a week, starting from Monday, Aug 24 to to carry out the caning punishment.

However, it was postponed following advice from Rahman and the Attorney-General's office.

Meanwhile, Kelantan state's Mentri Besar (chief minister) Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat has expressed discontent over court's handling of the matter.

"One moment, they want to carry out the caning sentence and the next moment, she is sent home.All this will destabilize the court."

OneIndia News