Teoh Beng Hock to Sabah mining scandal: Justice cannot wait

 

ADUN SPEAKS | Today marks the 17th anniversary of the tragic death of former political aide Teoh Beng Hock while in the custody of the MACC. 17 years have passed, yet no one has been held criminally accountable.

The Court of Appeal has held that Teoh’s death was caused by, or accelerated by, unlawful acts of persons unknown.

That judicial finding remains one of the most significant reminders that justice must never be allowed to fade with the passage of time.

Regardless of differing views on subsequent prosecutorial decisions, the prolonged delay and the absence of accountability have inevitably affected public confidence in our criminal justice system.

This anniversary is therefore not merely about remembering one individual; it is a solemn reminder that justice delayed is justice denied.

The same principle must equally apply to the Sabah mining scandal.

What is the AGC doing?

According to a parliamentary reply by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Azalina Othman Said, in response to the oral question raised by Warisan president Shafie Apdal, the investigation papers have already been submitted to the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC).

If that is indeed the case, the public is entitled to ask a simple and legitimate question: “What remains to be decided?”

To date, only two individuals have been charged, despite public allegations involving numerous persons, including state assemblypersons and senior public officers, while the whistleblower has also been prosecuted.

It is therefore understandable that members of the public are asking when decisions will be made regarding the remaining investigation papers.

I respectfully call upon the AGC to decide on the investigation papers as expeditiously as possible.

Attorney-General’s Chambers in Putrajaya

If further investigations are genuinely required, they should be completed without unnecessary delay. If sufficient evidence exists, prosecutions should proceed in accordance with the law.

If no prosecution is to be commenced against any individual, the public is equally entitled to a clear explanation consistent with the interests of justice and public accountability.

Restoring public trust

Likewise, the MACC must continue to demonstrate its commitment to investigating corruption independently, professionally, and without fear or favour, irrespective of the status, office, or political affiliation of any person involved.

The people of Malaysia expect our institutions to uphold the highest standards of integrity, independence, and accountability.

Whether it concerns a custodial death or a major corruption investigation, justice must be administered without fear or favour, without unnecessary delay, and with full respect for the rule of law.

Public trust cannot be restored by assurances alone. It is earned through transparent, timely, and impartial action. Only then can confidence in the MACC, the AGC, and the administration of justice be fully strengthened.

Teoh’s death should remain a lasting reminder that unresolved cases erode public confidence and leave painful questions unanswered.

We must ensure that the Sabah mining scandal does not become another case remembered not only for its seriousness, but also for the length of time taken to reach its lawful conclusion.

Justice delayed is justice denied. Rest in peace, Teoh. - Mkini

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CHIN TEK MING is the Kapayan state assemblyperson.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of MMKtT.