In August 2018, Muhammad Lukman Bin Mohammad was sentenced to death by hanging for processing, possessing and distributing marijuana in the form of liquid.
Upon learning about this matter, many Malaysians felt that the death penalty was a heavy punishment and defended the man’s innocence because he had done nothing but save lives.
According to Malay Mail, Permatang Pauh MP Nurul Izzah Anwar also feels that the death penalty for Lukman is a little too harsh. Therefore, she’s appealing to the Attorney-General (AG) Tommy Thomas to drop the charges against the poor man.
She was quoted as saying,
“Yes, we are following up. Personally speaking, I am writing an appeal to the AG – first and foremost to secure a pardon based on the merits of his case and predicament.”
“And secondly, to eventually decriminalise the use of cannabis oil for medical reasons.”
Are you on board with her ideas?
According to a US-based survey (2014) by WebMD, many doctors, especially oncologists and haematologists, said that medical marijuana should be legalised all over the nation (America).
This is because it can be used to treat chronic pain caused by cancer, chemotherapy-related nausea, multiple sclerosis and seizure disorders.
However, in Malaysia, Section 6 of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 states that the possession of marijuana is illegal. It is a punishable offence whereby the guilty could face imprisonment for up to five years or a fine no more than RM20,000.
On the other hand, one can also be punished with a jail term of at least five years and at least 10 strokes of the cane under Section 39A of the same law if they possess over 50 grams of drugs.
That’s some hefty punishments.
What’s your take on this issue? Do you agree with Nurul Izzah’s statements? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Also read: Netizens Are Signing This Petition to Free M’sian Man Who Saved Lives With Cannabis Oil