Tough trial in Malaysia: Frenchman Tom Félix faces the death penalty!

Tough trial in Malaysia: Frenchman Tom Félix faces the death penalty!

The trial against 34-year-old Frenchman Tom Félix began on June 16, 2025 in the Malaysian city of Alor Setar. The former manager at Veolia, trained in aquaculture and marine biology, faces serious allegations: he is accused of drug possession and trafficking and, in the worst case scenario, could face the death penalty. Felix was arrested on August 9, 2023 on the holiday island of Langkawi, where he was about to open a restaurant. When he was arrested, authorities found several hundred grams of cannabis in the common areas of the house where he lived with a Malaysian partner.

The proceedings at the High Court in Alor Setar had started promisingly but were halted early on the first day due to the absence of a witness. They are scheduled to continue until Thursday, but could also be postponed for up to a year due to administrative obstacles. Tom's family, which includes his parents Sylvie and Jean-Luc, have been campaigning tirelessly for his innocence for over 630 days and they have already sent an official statement to Malaysian prosecutors to quash the charges. This included witness statements from Tom's former employers to prove his innocence.

Living conditions in prison

The current conditions in which Tom is being held are alarming. He shares his cell with about 25 other prisoners and sleeps on a thin yoga mat, deprived of basic hygiene facilities. His parents report “horrible” conditions and psychological stress that Tom suffers as the only white inmate, especially when communicating with the other prisoners.

There is also worrying news regarding the legal aspects of the case. Tom's lawyer, François Zimeray, has previously raised concerns about the fairness of the Malaysian legal system and inhumane prison conditions. There is hope for a change in Malaysia's recent moves to abolish the mandatory death penalty for certain crimes. Should this process fail, Tom will be at imminent risk of facing a potentially gruesome fate as one of over 1,350 people currently on death row.

International support and doubts about the justice system

The case has also piqued the interest of the French government. President Emmanuel Macron met with Tom's parents on May 30 during an official visit to Singapore and pledged to do everything he could to help Tom. However, consular assistance remains limited and the family continues to struggle to obtain community funding to cover ongoing costs of visits and legal fees. Meanwhile, Tom's lawyer has stated that the case is not being treated as a priority, which further reduces hopes of a speedy resolution.

With all these challenges, the situation for Tom Félix and his family is worrying. The coming days will show whether the process can change for the better. Parents and friends have high hopes for any step that could bring Tom's release closer. Time is of the essence and outside support remains crucial.