Dr Malik Yatam granted royal audience after historic PhD completion in prison and full pardon in 2024
DR Malik Yatam has achieved a historic milestone as Malaysia’s first former prisoner to complete doctoral studies while incarcerated and subsequently receive a full pardon from the Selangor Sultan.
Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah granted Dr Malik a royal audience on February 3 (Tuesday) during a private one-hour meeting, marking the first occasion the Sultan has received a pardoned former inmate, according to an announcement from the Selangor Royal Office‘s Facebook page.
Dr Malik’s pardon was issued in conjunction with Sultan Sharafuddin’s birthday celebrations in 2024, recognising his remarkable academic achievement and personal transformation.
The 39-year-old scholar began serving his sentence in 2001 at age 14. Despite his circumstances, he pursued higher education and successfully obtained a PhD in Business Administration while detained at Kajang Prison.
During the royal audience, Sultan Sharafuddin inquired about Dr Malik’s experiences following his release and his aspirations moving forward.
The royal office statement indicated that His Royal Highness was profoundly touched by Dr Malik’s life trajectory and believed he warranted an opportunity for redemption.
“His Royal Highness was deeply moved by Dr Malik’s life journey and felt that he deserved a second chance,” the Facebook post stated.
The Sultan provided counsel to Dr Malik, encouraging him to preserve his family’s reputation and maintain his commitment to self-improvement. His Royal Highness offered both guidance and moral support as Dr Malik embarks on the next chapter of his life.
Dr Malik’s case represents an extraordinary example of rehabilitation through education within Malaysia’s correctional system. His successful completion of doctoral studies while serving time demonstrates the potential for personal transformation even in challenging circumstances.
The full pardon granted by Sultan Sharafuddin acknowledges not only Dr Malik’s academic accomplishments but also his dedication to rehabilitation and personal growth during his incarceration.
The historic meeting between the Sultan and Dr Malik underscores the importance of second chances and the role of education in prisoner rehabilitation programs.
