Court increases sentence for ex-domestic worker convicted of child rape

The enhanced sentence was handed down following an appeal review of the case against Zulpandy Rispen Effendi, an Indonesian national who formerly worked as a domestic worker. The court found the original judgment insufficient given the severity of the crime and the vulnerability of the victim at the time of the offence.

The assault took place in a hotel room in the Gombak area of Selangor state in 2022. The victim, a minor at just 13 years old, was subjected to sexual abuse by Effendi, who was subsequently charged and convicted of rape.

The appellate decision reflects the judiciary's commitment to protecting minors from sexual exploitation and delivering proportionate justice in cases involving child abuse. The five-year increase in the custodial sentence underscores the gravity with which Malaysian courts treat offences against children.

The case forms part of ongoing efforts by Malaysian authorities to combat child sexual abuse and ensure perpetrators face stringent penalties under the law.