On Monday, 17 November, the family of the late Pannir Selvam Pranthaman, in collaboration with Sebaran Kasih, Amnesty International Malaysia, Victory City Church, and The NeoKeleLims, hosted the launch of See My Heart, a song and music video created by Pannir and his family before his execution in Singapore.
Written in 2019 after Pannir received a stay of execution, See My Heart was inspired by a vision by Pannir’s brother, Pastor Isaac, who was moved to write the song one morning while praying.
A copy of the lyrics was sent to Pannir, who meticulously reviewed the words, music sequence and choreography from his prison cell. He storyboarded the music video by hand and directed its filming through his sister, Angelia Pranthaman.
Though the video was completed shortly before his execution, Pannir never got to see the final version. The song now stands as a testament to his creativity, faith and unbroken spirit behind bars.
The following words are Pannir Selvam’s own reflection on See My Heart, written before his execution: “This song carries a piece of my heart. Each line reminds me of the moments I’ve lived – the love of my family, the memories of my childhood, and the faith that keeps me strong. This song is my reflection, my prayer, and my hope for a second chance – within and beyond these walls.”
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Speaking at the launch, Angelia Pranthaman, Pannir’s sister and president of Sebaran Kasih, said: “Pannir poured his soul into his art. Even in the darkest of places, he continued to write, create and inspire. See My Heart is more than a song, it is both a prayer and a protest – a reminder that compassion and humanity must always triumph over cruelty and fear.
“My brother may be gone, but his voice continues to speak, reminding us all of the power of love and faith.”
Also speaking at the launch was Qistina Johari, an Amnesty International Malaysia campaigner: Pannir has touched everyone who has come to know his story. Even from behind bars, he reached across borders with his art, his poetry and his compassion.
“See My Heart is his final gift to this world – a call to end this cruel punishment that robs families of their loved ones and extinguishes lives that still have so much light to give.”
See My Heart was written by Ps. Isaac Pranthaman and released this morning. – Amnesty
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