KUCHING: The Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) voiced out its deep concerns with the recent findings of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) that the police’s Special Branch was involved in the abduction and enforced disappearance of Pastor Raymond Koh and social activist Amri Che Mat.
In a press statement issued today, ACS expressed its appreciation that the findings and recommendations of Suhakam were neither conclusive of guilt nor had the legal effect of a Court Judgment.
“However, the findings which were made following an 18-month inquiry have raised public alarm and serious concern, especially with regard to the constitutional rights of religious freedom and the safety of citizens from actions by state agents,” it reads.
The statement continued: “The rights of a person to liberty, life and religious freedom are the most fundamental rights and liberties proclaimed under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 1948 and enshrined in Article 5 and 11 of the Federal Constitution of Malaysia.”
“In view of the seriousness of the findings and the long suffering and anguish which the families of Pastor Koh and Amri had endured, ACS calls on the federal government to promptly establish an independent and impartial task force to reinvestigate their disappearances and take appropriate action in the event of any unlawful action. This would not only be in line with upholding the rule of law but also to ensure that no one is above the law,” it stated.
Apart from urging the government to take heed of and immediately act on the recommendations made by Suhakam, ACS also calls upon the government to uphold the guarantee of religious freedom in accordance with the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Federal Constitution and to ensure the safety and security of all places of worship and preachers and worshippers regardless of race or creed.
The ACS also stated it stood together with the government to promote peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, understanding and harmony among all communities and the people of Malaysia.
