KMT Lawmaker Proposes Caning for Fraud Convicts, Sparks Debate

A proposal by Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) Legislator Hung Meng-kai to introduce caning as a punishment for fraud convicts has ignited significant debate in Taiwan. The suggestion was made in a Facebook post, where Hung referenced a report from the Straits Times about Singapore’s plans to expand caning to include scammers and those involved in fraud schemes.

According to Hung, despite existing penalties in Singapore—such as fines and prison sentences of up to 10 years—the rise in fraud cases has prompted authorities to seek more effective deterrents. He highlighted that under the proposed regulations in Singapore, individuals involved in scam operations could face discretionary caning, with penalties ranging from 12 strokes for scam mules to 24 strokes for key members of fraud syndicates.

Hung argued that Taiwan has struggled to eliminate crimes like fraud and drunk driving, even with increasing penalties. He suggested that the nation should consider adopting a caning system similar to Singapore’s, which he believes could enhance legal deterrence. He expressed interest in conducting legislative exchanges with Singapore, much like his previous trip to Japan with Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu to meet with Japanese lawmakers, to better understand the implementation of caning.

The proposal received an enthusiastic response online, amassing over 100,000 likes and 24,000 comments as of the latest count. Many supporters called for extending this form of punishment to other criminals, including child and animal abusers. Public figures, including influencer Cheng Tsai-wei, have also weighed in, noting that Singapore’s caning policy is supported by factors unique to its status as an international finance and shipping hub, which shields it somewhat from global criticism.

Conversely, opposition to the proposal has been vocal. Chuang Jui-hsiung, a legislator from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), described the idea as a “step backwards” for human rights in Taiwan. He cautioned that implementing caning would likely invite international condemnation and argued that it lacks any rehabilitative purpose. Instead, Chuang suggested more reasonable approaches to combat fraud, such as increasing penalties or enhancing parole requirements for offenders.

Judicial caning is already a reality in Singapore, where it is applicable to over 30 offenses under the Singapore Penal Code. The practice is mandatory for crimes such as robbery, drug trafficking, and vandalism, and can be administered to males aged 18 to 50, involving up to 24 strokes delivered with a long rattan cane.

As of now, Hung has not indicated any plans to pursue legislation to formally introduce caning for scammers in Taiwan. The ongoing discussion reflects a complex interplay between legal reform, human rights considerations, and public sentiment regarding crime and punishment in the region.