Feb 17, 2008: Jabing Kho and fellow Sarawakian Galing Anak Kujat attack construction worker Cao Ruyin and Wu Jun near Geylang Drive while trying to rob them. Kho is said to have bludgeoned Cao’s head with a tree branch so hard that his accomplice saw the victim’s head crack open. Cao was found with 14 skull fractures and died of head injuries six days later.

2010: Kho and Galing receive the mandatory death sentence.

2011: Kho’s death sentence is affirmed by the Court of Appeal, but Galing is convicted of robbery with hurt and sentenced to 18 years and six months’ jail with 19 strokes of the cane.

2013: Penal Code amendments that give judges sentencing discretion for certain categories of murder take effect. Jabing is re-sentenced to life in prison with 24 strokes of the cane. Prosecution files an appeal, arguing that Kho had shown “scant regard for human life”.

Jan 2015: Majority of the five-judge Court of Appeal approve the plea and impose the death penalty on Kho

Oct 2015: Kho’s appeal for clemency was turned down by President Tony Tan Keng Yam on the Cabinet’s advice.

Nov 4, 2015: The Sarawak government said it will not interfere in the case

Nov 5, 2015: A day before he was to be sent to the gallows, Kho was handed a temporary reprieve after a motion was filed at the eleventh hour to give his newly appointed lawyer more time to prepare the case.