Regarding the implementation of the death penalty on...

Regarding the implementation of the death penalty on those convicted of raping minors, a New Straits Times article stated that: "the death penalty may not act as a deterrent. Instead, the focus should be on effective prevention of the crime. There is no credible evidence that imposing the death sentence reduces rape crime rates. Studies have shown that the death penalty is more likely to be imposed on those who are poor as they are unable to afford high legal fees. In addition, since the sentence is irrevocable, wrongful executions have and may be carried out. Most incidents of child rape and sexual abuse are committed by family members, neighbours and teachers. As such, the victims, for fear of being made responsible for another life, may resort to silence and result in such incidents being even more under-reported. Besides, given the gravity of the sentence, many victims may experience guilt and self-blame, and be further traumatised. Furthermore, the death penalty is a violation of the fundamental right to life, as stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Article 3, and Article 5 of the Malaysian Constitution. Everyone has the right not to be subjected to cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment. The authorities should seriously reconsider the death penalty and give more focus to the prevention of the crime."