KUALA LUMPUR: A coalition representing 73 civil society organisations in Malaysia says the recent findings of a public inquiry into last year’s episode at Taiping Prison speak boldly and loudly about the suspicions many have held over the decades.
In a statement to Twentytwo13, the CSO Platform for Reform called on Putrajaya to respond decisively to the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia’s (Suhakam) damning findings and recommendations.
“There must be clear and definitive action taken against those mentioned of criminal wrongdoing,” the statement read.
“This must be done through a transparent, independent, and expeditious investigation into all the allegations including excessive force, destruction of evidence, falsification of records, and negligence contributing to death or injury.
“Institutional reform within the prison system must be prioritised. This includes addressing overcrowding through alternatives to remand and incarceration, improving detainees’ healthcare and living conditions, strengthening staff training and operational safeguards, and ensuring independent oversight mechanisms.
“These changes must also take into account the other detention facilities under the Immigration Department of Malaysia, and police.
“The government should accede to the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT) and the implementation of international standards for the humane treatment of persons deprived of liberty.”
Twentytwo13 first reported on the incident on Jan 25 in an article by columnist and criminologist Datuk Dr P. Sundramoorthy.
On May 26, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said Suhakam’s findings were deeply disturbing and that he would raise the matter at the next Cabinet meeting. He also said the Inspector-General of Police and the Attorney-General must answer for the abuses.
Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh also called on the relevant authorities to be more transparent, adding that Suhakam’s report was a timely reminder of the importance of institutional reforms and that the Madani government must take heed of its recommendations if its reform agenda is to be taken seriously.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the Cabinet had yet to discuss Suhakam’s findings, but that the government would study the report before deciding on further action.
The CSO Platform for Reform said a mere review of Suhakam’s report by the government was insufficient.
“The treatment of individuals in custody is a test of democratic governance and the rule of law. Malaysia must demonstrate that no institution is beyond scrutiny and that human rights protections apply equally to all, including those deprived of liberty.”
It added that Malaysia must be on par with international standards of prison and detention centre management.
“We are far from it. The present Madani government’s reform-oriented commitment to democratic governance and the rule of law demands that these findings must serve as a catalyst for institutional change.
“Public institutions entrusted with custodial powers must operate within a framework of legality, transparency, accountability, and respect for human dignity.
“The legitimacy of state institutions depends on public confidence that abuses of power will be investigated independently and addressed without fear or favour,” it added.
The Prisons Department had earlier said it would examine Suhakam’s report to ensure that all matters raised received appropriate attention.
The Health Ministry, meanwhile, said it would investigate the alleged wrongdoing involving its medical personnel. Its deputy director-general (public health), Dr Ismuni Bohari, said the ministry took the findings seriously and would not compromise on professional negligence, violations of clinical governance or non-compliance with medical practice standards.
