Da'i Syed's rape case: What we know so far

SHAH ALAM - Celebrity preacher Da’i Syed, whose real name is Syed Shah Iqmal Syed Mohd Shaiful, was sentenced to 10 years in prison and three strokes of the cane for rape.

The case, which dates back five years, has stirred social media and led to new accusations against him. Here is a breakdown of the events, the public's reaction and the latest allegations.

April 10, 2023: Initial Acquittal

Da'i Syed’s legal troubles began when he was accused of raping a 23-year-old woman at a condominium in I-City, Shah Alam, on Sept 11, 2019.

Initially on April 10, 2023 at Shah Alam Sessions Court, Judge Rihaida Rafie acquitted and discharged Da'i Syed, citing a lack of evidence to establish a prima facie case.

The preacher, well-known for his motivational speeches and religious teachings, had pleaded not guilty when the charges were first brought against him on Dec 10, 2020.

During the trial, 19 prosecution witnesses testified, but their accounts were not enough to convince the court at that time.

The preacher faced charges under Section 376(1) of the Penal Code, which could have resulted in up to 20 years in prison and whipping if found guilty.

March 7, 2024: High Court Overturns Acquittal

The legal tide turned against Da'i Syed on March 7, when the Shah Alam High Court overturned the earlier acquittal after the prosecution's appeal.

The High Court found that there was sufficient evidence to proceed, and Da'i Syed was ordered to defend himself against the rape charge.

Aug 30, 2024: Conviction and Sentencing

On Aug 30, Da'i Syed was convicted by the Shah Alam Sessions Court. Judge Norazlin Othman handed down a sentence of 10 years in prison and three strokes of the cane, stating that the defence had failed to raise reasonable doubts against the prosecution's case.

In her judgement, Norazlin criticised Da'i Syed, highlighting that as a preacher and motivational speaker, he had committed an act that ‘defied logic.’

She emphasised the trauma endured by the victim, who had shown immense courage in filing a police report and enduring a prolonged legal process.

Norazlin added that Da'i Syed’s testimony was merely a ‘denial and an afterthought’ and was insufficient to counter the prosecution's evidence that he had indeed raped the woman.

The prosecution also highlighted the victim's vulnerability, pointing out that she was suffering from depression at the time, which impaired her ability to resist.

Meanwhile, Deputy Public Prosecutor Raja Zaizul Faridah Raja Zaharudin called for a severe sentence, stressing the importance of public interest and the increasing prevalence of rape crimes.

"The accused is a well-known individual, a preacher with a strong religious background, and a motivator for young people.

“When this character is presented to society, it is held in high regard, but the accused used his position to take advantage of the victim,” she said.

In response, Da'i Syed’s lawyer, Syed Amirul Syed Edros, requested a stay of execution, citing his client's first-time offence, his recent marriage and the birth of his daughter just 16 days prior.

The plea was denied and Da'i Syed began his sentence immediately, being sent to Kajang Prison.

Sept 1, 2024: Wife’s Reaction

The news of Da'i Syed's conviction quickly spread across social media, reigniting public interest in the case.

His wife, Hana Ismail, who was present in court became the focus of attention when she posted an emotional message on her Instagram story.

"These eyes cry, and this heart is saddened. But we will only say what is pleasing to our Lord. Alhamdulillah for all the blessings that have been bestowed upon our little family.

“I humbly request your prayers and kindness," she said.

The public's response was mixed, with many expressing sympathy for Hana and their newborn daughter, Sharifah Fatma Nour Jamalullail.

Sept 1, 2024: New Allegations

As if the situation was not already dire, a new twist emerged on Sept 1, when a woman accused Da'i Syed of harassing her while his wife was heavily pregnant.

The woman, who shared her experience on the social media platform Thread, claimed that despite knowing she was married and had a child, Da'i Syed invited her to travel abroad, specifically to Dubai.

"He knew that I was married and had a child, and at that time, his wife was also pregnant.

"But he still harassed me with ‘let's call, want to call’ (I never answered or spoke to him on the phone),” she said.

She further shared screenshots of their messages on Instagram, initially believing that he was reaching out for legal advice.

However, she became suspicious when he suggested travelling together.

"I thought he might just want legal advice, but when he started asking about going to Dubai, I found it very suspicious. I feel sorry for his wife, she must not be aware of her husband’s behaviour,” she said.