ALOR SETAR, KEDAH, MALAYSIA February 4, 2026 – The Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) Kedah has successfully repatriated French national Tom Félix, 34, to his home country following his acquittal and release by the High Court in Alor Setar.
The court, on 3 February 2026, acquitted Félix of eight drug-related charges — including possession and trafficking of cannabis — that could have carried the death penalty under Malaysian law. High Court Judge Evawani Farisyta Mohammad ruled that the prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that Félix had control, custody, or possession of the drugs found in a shared residence in 2023. The case stemmed from the discovery of approximately 1.86 kg of cannabis in a common area of a home Félix shared with a Malaysian business partner, along with a smaller personal amount.
“I’m happy to be out,” Félix reportedly told reporters shortly after the verdict, expressing relief after nearly two and a half years in detention.
Immediately following the court’s decision to acquit and discharge him, JIM Kedah took swift action to facilitate his repatriation. The department coordinated the issuance of necessary travel documentation and ensured the process complied fully with immigration laws and procedures.
The repatriation effort involved close collaboration among multiple agencies, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Immigration Director General’s Office, the court, the Kedah State Prosecutor, the JIM Putrajaya Depot Management Division, and the Attorney General’s Chambers. Representatives from the French Embassy were present, along with Félix’s parents, who provided support and helped streamline arrangements for his departure.
Félix was safely escorted and departed Malaysia via Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in an orderly manner, marking the conclusion of his legal ordeal in the country.
The Immigration Department of Malaysia reaffirms its commitment to upholding the rule of law while maintaining strong cooperation with all relevant stakeholders, including foreign embassies, to handle such cases efficiently and humanely.
This development brings closure to a high-profile case that drew international attention, particularly in France, due to the severity of the potential penalties involved.
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