Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Abdul Karim has voiced strong opposition to the Royal Commission of Inquiry’s (RCI) recommendation to file a police report against former prime minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad over Malaysia’s loss of its claim to Pulau Batu Puteh. Speaking in the Dewan Rakyat, Hassan questioned the prudence and ethics of pursuing criminal charges against the 99-year-old statesman, who is frequently undergoing treatment at the National Heart Institute (IJN).
While acknowledging the legal basis of the RCI’s findings, Hassan argued that a criminal investigation against Dr. Mahathir should be reconsidered, given his advanced age and significant contributions to Malaysia’s development. “The commission’s findings may have legal merit, but do we truly want to subject a former prime minister, almost a century old and in fragile health, to criminal proceedings?” Hassan questioned during his parliamentary address.
As a member of PKR, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s party, Hassan emphasized that his call for fairness should not be misconstrued as unwavering support for Dr. Mahathir. “I am not a staunch supporter of Dr. Mahathir; in fact, I am often critical of him. But we must exercise fairness,” he said.
Hassan also challenged the practicality of the RCI’s recommendation, asking, “If we proceed with punishing Dr. Mahathir, will it restore Batu Puteh to Malaysia?” The MP highlighted that seeking accountability should not overshadow the need for a balanced approach, particularly when dealing with a leader who has left an indelible mark on the nation.
Citing Dr. Mahathir’s legacy, Hassan pointed to major infrastructural achievements during the former prime minister’s tenure. “Putrajaya, where many of us hold our offices—who envisioned and built it? The North-South Expressway that connects us to Kangar, Johor, and beyond—who made it possible? Even the iconic, world-famous buildings we see lit up at night—these are part of his contributions,” Hassan remarked.
The RCI’s 217-page report, which was distributed to MPs, recommended a criminal investigation against Dr. Mahathir under Sections 415(b), 417, and 418 of the Penal Code. These provisions pertain to cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property, potentially leading to criminal charges if pursued.
However, Hassan’s stance underscores a broader debate about balancing accountability with respect for historical contributions and ethical considerations. He urged the government and lawmakers to consider the broader implications of initiating criminal proceedings against a leader who has shaped Malaysia’s modern history.
For Hassan, the focus should not solely be on punitive measures but on lessons learned from the Batu Puteh case.
As the debate continues, the RCI’s recommendations remain a contentious subject, raising critical questions about accountability, justice, and the legacy of Malaysia’s longest-serving prime minister.
Information Source: Malay Mail
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