Former MasterChef Malaysia finalist Etiqah Siti Norashikeen Mohd Sulong and her ex-husband Mohammad Ambree Yunos were sentenced to 34 years in prison for murdering their domestic helper.
Ambree also received 12 strokes of the cane. Etiqah was exempted from caning due to her gender.
Both defendants were convicted under Section 302 of the Penal Code. This section provides for the death penalty or imprisonment between 30 and 40 years. Convictions also carry a minimum of 12 strokes of the cane when the death penalty is not imposed.
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Kota Kinabalu High Court Judge Datuk Dr Lim Hock Leng stated the prosecution successfully proved three key elements. The victim died from her injuries. The injuries were inflicted by both accused with intent. The pair acted with common intention.
MasterChef Contestant and Contractor Found Guilty of Domestic Helper’s Brutal Death
The couple murdered Nur Afiyah Daeng Damin, 28, between 8 December and 11 December 2021 at their condominium unit in Penampang, Sabah.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Dacia Jane Romanus described the crime as prolonged, cruel, and deliberate torture rather than a murder committed in anger or provocation.
The victim suffered daily abuse and was denied basic human rights. The court noted the type of injuries and how they were inflicted over an extended period.
The abuse was captured on the accused’s mobile phone.
Nur Afiyah had left her hometown to earn an honest living during the global pandemic, Dacida said. While others were sheltering at home for safety, she endured prolonged suffering at her workplace before her death.
The accused, as employers, should have provided shelter, food, and protection. Instead, they tortured their domestic helper every day before taking her life.
During sentencing, Dacia sought the death penalty. She argued that the case shocked both Sabah and the nation, warranting the heaviest penalty possible.
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Legal Proceedings and Sentencing Details
The case was first brought to court on 29 December 2021. The couple pleaded not guilty and sought trial on 17 November 2022.
Judge Lim ordered their prison sentences to commence immediately on 22 June 2025.
Ambree and Etiqah were represented by lawyers Ram Singh and Rakhbir Singh. Both defendants were previously released on bail during the legal proceedings.
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