Malasyia: A teenager with intellectual disabilities has been charged in the Tanah Merah Magistrate’s Court with the murder of a senior citizen. The accused, Tuan Mohamad Izmal Firdaus Tuan Muda, 18, appeared before Magistrate Tun Faez Fikhrie on Tuesday (1 July) and nodded as the charge was read. However, no plea was recorded, as the case falls under the jurisdiction of the High Court.
According to court documents, the teenager is accused of murdering 60-year-old Shamsudin Mohamed on the side of a road near a grocery shop in Kampung Buluh, Gual Ipoh. The incident allegedly took place between 6pm and 6.30pm on 19 June 2025, shocking the quiet village community.
Accused Faces Potential Death Penalty Under Section 302
The charge is framed under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which stipulates a mandatory death sentence upon conviction. However, amendments to sentencing guidelines also provide the possibility of imprisonment for a term of not less than 30 to 40 years, coupled with a minimum of 12 strokes of the cane.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Siti Hajar Mazlan represented the prosecution during the proceedings. The accused was unrepresented at the hearing, raising concerns about whether he would receive adequate legal support given his intellectual disability.
Next Court Mention Set for September
The magistrate set 2 September 2025 for the next mention of the case, allowing time for legal counsel to be arranged and for the case to be prepared for transfer to the High Court. The incident has sparked discussions over the treatment of intellectually disabled individuals within Malaysia’s criminal justice system, with calls for authorities to ensure fair and compassionate handling of such sensitive cases.
This case also highlights ongoing concerns about youth crime and the importance of mental health assessments when dealing with young offenders facing serious charges.