Repeal SOSMA without Delay

The Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH) is deeply disappointed that our Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has no intention to further review and abolish the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma). This is despite his prior criticism of detainment without trial, and violation of the detainee’s rights in confinement. Our concern is that this inhumane law will become the strongest weapon for those in power to deal with dissidents. Hence, it must be abolished immediately.

Back in March and July this year, former home minister Hamzah Zainudin had proposed a parliamentary motion to extend Sosma over the next five years. Pakatan Harapan (PH) argued hard to oppose it, including Saifuddin, who was also under PH as Kulim MP back then. Now, with his important position at the Ministry of Home Affairs, is to abandon the past stance of PH on abolishing this security act. We do not agree with such an action, as Sosma must be abolished immediately, in lieu of an effective system of checks and balances, to govern the laws and principles of our country.

KLSCAH would like to point out that Article 150 of our Federal Constitution is sufficient to deal with terrorism and armed conflicts. Since our country abolished the Internal Security Act (ISA), our democracy and freedom still receded under the shadow of this Sosma in the past decade. There is no reason to defend this draconian law with its impending oppression of human rights.

KLSCAH appeals to the new government led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim not to be inconsistent in word and deed. It is urgent to abolish this security act. We should continue the process of democratic reform to rebuild the trust and support of the whole nation.

Sincerely,

The Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH)