The Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, recently granted an audience to Dr Malik Yatam, the first former prisoner to obtain a PhD while incarcerated.
Dr Malik was granted a full pardon by the Selangor Ruler in conjunction with His Royal Highness’ birthday in 2024, after serving 24 years under Tahanan Limpah Sultan (TLS)—a sentence without a fixed release date. He began serving his sentence at the age of 14.
A historic meeting
According to a post by the Selangor Royal Office, the meeting with His Majesty lasted for nearly an hour in a quiet and emotional atmosphere.
The statement read:
“This was the first meeting of its kind between His Majesty and a former convict who received a royal pardon. After 24 years of serving a Tahanan Limpah Sultan (TLS) sentence, he was not sentenced to death because, at the time of the crime, he was under 18 years old. Dr Malik was finally released on 11 December 2024.”
“Having served his sentence since 2001, Dr Malik, now 39, successfully obtained a PhD in Business Administration through his dedicated efforts to continue his studies while at Kajang Prison.”
A second chance
During the meeting, His Majesty enquired about Dr Malik’s life post-release and his future plans. His Majesty appeared so pleased with the former convict’s responses that he consented to a hug.
“His Majesty was very moved by Dr Malik’s life journey and felt that he deserved a second chance. His Majesty carefully considered this pardon, weighing all factors presented during the Pardon Board Meeting on 24 November 2024,” the statement continued.
His Majesty also advised Dr Malik to protect his family’s reputation and to remain enthusiastic about improving his standard of living.
What is TLS?
According to HAYAT, Tahanan Limpah Sultan (TLS) is Malaysia’s legal equivalent of being detained “at His Majesty’s pleasure.” It is primarily used for juvenile offenders under Section 97 of the Child Act 2001 who commit serious crimes that would otherwise warrant the death penalty.
Under TLS, detainees are imprisoned at the Ruler’s discretion. Release dates are determined by the Ruler following annual reviews by a Board of Visiting Justices, who provide recommendations to the Palace.
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