The recent assault on deaf e-hailing driver Ong Ing Keong by a police officer has stirred public outcry and frustration with the justice system. Months after the incident, PKR MP Hassan Abdul Karim (Harapan-Pasir Gudang) is pressing the government for answers on why prosecution has yet to be initiated against the officer responsible.
The incident, which took place on May 28, 2024, was caught on a dashcam, capturing the officer striking Ong during an incident involving an escort for Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim. While Tunku Ismail himself called for justice, the case has seen a troubling delay, leading to growing demands for accountability. Hassan, addressing Parliament during the recent Supply Bill 2025 debate, voiced his dismay, arguing that justice should be swift and unequivocal.
“As an MP and a lawyer, this delay is against the very principles of justice we’re sworn to uphold,” Hassan asserted, highlighting the need for equal treatment of all citizens under the law, regardless of physical ability. “We cannot defend this deaf disabled person? I demand the Minister-in-Charge of Law, Dato' Seri Azalina Othman Said, and her deputy, M. Kulasegaran, both of whom are lawyers, answer in this House: when will the Attorney-General bring this case to court?”
Hassan’s plea drew inspiration from recent calls for justice from Pahang Crown Prince Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah. In a high-profile case earlier this month, the prince publicly demanded accountability in the alleged assault of a road construction worker, Alias Awang, by a member of the Pahang royalty. Hassan echoed this sentiment by declaring, “The driver is our people, Ong Ing Keong,” underlining his commitment to ensuring justice for Ong as a Malaysian citizen who deserves fair treatment.
The Deaf Advocacy and Wellbeing National Organisation (DAWN), a key supporter of Ong, has tirelessly championed his case since it first emerged. Partnering with Lawyers for Liberty, DAWN held a press conference on May 31, 2024, drawing attention to Ong’s plight and the broader issues that the deaf community faces in accessing justice. DAWN recently launched an online petition demanding accountability and systemic changes to support the rights of deaf persons. As of now, the petition has gathered over 3,850 signatures, a testament to the growing public demand for fairness in this case.
The delay has cast a spotlight on the treatment of disabled persons in Malaysia’s legal system. Advocates argue that these delays not only compound the challenges faced by disabled individuals but also erode trust in the legal and political institutions meant to protect them.
For Hassan, justice for Ong transcends the specifics of the case as it reflects a fundamental principle of equality under the law. His insistence that Parliament’s leaders take a stand underscores the need for a justice system that protects every Malaysian, including vulnerable and marginalized individuals.
As this case progresses, it is a moment of reflection for lawmakers and citizens alike: can our institutions uphold justice for all? For many, this case is a litmus test, and the outcome will likely resonate far beyond the parties involved, impacting broader public confidence in Malaysia’s commitment to equal justice.
By: Kpost
Information Source: Malaysiakini
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