How did the Federal Court assess the remorse shown by Haniff Khatri versus the moneylender partners?

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Federal Court Differentiated Remorse Levels in Contempt Sentencing

The Federal Court distinguished the level of remorse shown by senior lawyer Mohamed Haniff Khatri from that of the three moneylender partners when imposing fines for contempt of court. While Khatri offered an unequivocal and unconditional apology, the three partners, Ding Toh Biew, Ding Toh Gien, and Ding Toh Lei, maintained they acted on legal advice and did not express regret. This difference in expressed remorse was a significant factor in the court's sentencing.
Moneylender Partners' Lack of Remorse Led to Higher Fines

The court imposed RM50,000 fines on the three moneylender partners because they failed to demonstrate regret or remorse after being found guilty of contempt. Instead of expressing remorse, the partners insisted their actions were based on the advice of their former solicitor, Mohamed Haniff Khatri. This stance, as articulated by Federal Court judge Datuk Abdul Rahman Sebli, contributed to the severity of their penalty.
Mohamed Haniff Khatri's Apology Acknowledged, With Caveats

Federal Court judge Datuk Abdul Rahman Sebli noted that Mohamed Haniff Khatri had apologised to the court in an unequivocal and unconditional manner, indicating apparent genuine remorse. However, the court also took into consideration that Khatri's apology was offered only after he had been found guilty of contempt. This timing was a relevant aspect of the court's assessment of his contrition.
Contempt of Court Deemed a Serious Offence

In delivering the sentences, Justice Abdul Rahman underscored that contempt of court is an offence that must not be taken lightly. This principle guided the court's decision-making process in determining appropriate penalties for all parties involved in the case. The context of contempt being a serious matter informed the court's evaluation of the actions and expressed sentiments of both Khatri and the moneylender partners.

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How did the Federal Court assess the remorse shown by Haniff Khatri versus the moneylender partners?

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