Media Statement by Liew Chin Tong in Penang on Wednesday, 29^th July 2009:

International initiative on the death of Teoh Beng Hock

Members of the international community have responded positively in support of DAP’s call for an independent, impartial and full-fledged Royal Commission of Inquiry into the death of Teoh Beng Hock.

The shocking and untimely death of Teoh Beng Hock on 16 July 2009 has rightfully outraged all Malaysians, due to the mysterious circumstances surrounding his death. Above all, the brunt of public anger lies squarely on the manner the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s (MACC) has handled the case, disclaiming any responsibility over Teoh’s death.

Teoh, 30, the political secretary to Selangor DAP exco member Ean Yong Hian Wah, was taken in at 5pm on 15 July 2009 to the MACC Selangor state headquarters for questioning in relation to a probe concerning several Pakatan Rakyat assemblypersons after the MACC officers raided Selangor state EXCO Ean Yong Hian Wah’s office. His body was later discovered on the roof of the adjacent building at 1.30 pm the following day. So far the MACC and the police have not been forthcoming in explaining the circumstances of Teoh’s death, lacing the MACC with ever deeper suspicion and foul play in the eyes of all truth-seeking Malaysian citizens.

In light of such a tragic loss of life and the seemingly unmoved and recalcitrant nature of the MACC in taking full responsibility of their conduct and the duty of care owed to the victim, the Democratic Action Party of Malaysia has initiated an international appeal to members of the international community to support us in demanding the setting up of an independent full-fledged and not half-baked Royal Commission to investigate the death of Teoh Beng Hock.

The two-track solution of having the Royal Commission of Inquiry to examine whether the procedures employed by MACC infringed on Teoh’s rights and a separate inquest are not acceptable.

Nothing less than a full, transparent and impartial enquiry can ensure that justice be served for the victim and the grieving family members, as well as satisfying the Malaysian public’s demand for transparency in the investigation.

* Liew Chin Tong, DAP International Secretary & MP for Bukit Bendera