KUALA LUMPUR – Muda has called on the Malaysian government to explore ways to ratify the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Uncat).
In a statement, Muda’s central executive committee member Dobby Chew said that several countries, including those practising shariah law, have signed on to the convention.
He called for the government to explore ways for Malaysia to achieve Uncat ratification and to introduce appropriate legislation and amendments to criminalise the use of torture by enforcement agencies and state actors.
“Caning and whipping have always been an issue of contention within Uncat.
“However, this has not prevented numerous countries that impose caning and whipping in their jurisdiction from ratifying Uncat. This includes countries that maintain and practise shariah law,” Chew noted.
“If the government is sincere in the prevention of torture, it should hold a formal public inquiry into custodial deaths and prosecute perpetrators involved in torture and abuse in custody.”
This comes in response to Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail telling the Parliament that Malaysia currently has no intention to ratify Uncat, citing concerns over the country’s laws on caning and whipping.
He further argued that the minister should focus on the core message of Uncat – the prevention of torture – rather than being sidetracked by caning and whipping.
Muda acknowledged the government’s efforts in reducing deaths in police custody but stressed past cases that are still unresolved, with perpetrators of torture and abuse still walking free.
“Until today, the Madani government has yet to address Teoh Beng Hock’s death nor have they initiated criminal actions against the perpetrators,” Chew said.
He was referring to the 2009 incident of a politician’s aide falling to his death from the 14th floor of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s office while in custody. – July 3, 2024