How might judicial delays impact the search for truth in the Koh case?

Question

Accepted Answer

Judicial Delays Could Jeopardise Evidence and Witness Availability in Pastor Raymond Koh Case

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has expressed significant concern that ongoing judicial delays in the Pastor Raymond Koh disappearance case could severely impede the pursuit of truth and accountability. The commission warned that prolonged postponements might lead to the deterioration of crucial evidence, the unavailability of witnesses, and the permanent loss of investigative opportunities. These potential consequences risk further prolonging a case that has remained unresolved for over nine years, thereby hindering the search for justice for Pastor Koh and his family.
Court of Appeal Ruling Upholds Stay on High Court Orders

On July 29, a three-judge panel at the Court of Appeal made a decision that dismissed an appeal lodged by Susanna Liew, Pastor Koh's wife. This ruling upheld a stay on key aspects of the High Court's earlier judgment. Specifically, the enforcement of approximately RM37 million in damages awarded and the High Court's directive for a renewed investigation are now on hold, pending the government's substantive appeal. This decision effectively pauses the process of seeking redress and reopening the investigation as initially ordered.
High Court Found Government and Police Liable

In November 2025, the High Court had previously determined that the government and the police were liable for Pastor Koh's enforced disappearance. This landmark ruling also mandated the reopening of the investigation into the case, outlining several specific conditions for its execution. This High Court decision represented a significant step towards establishing accountability for the events leading to Koh's disappearance.
Suhakam's Previous Inquiry Concluded Enforced Disappearance by State Agents

Suhakam's own public inquiry, conducted in 2019, had previously concluded that Pastor Koh, who vanished in February 2017, was indeed a victim of enforced disappearance. The commission’s findings at the time specifically pointed to state agents as being responsible for carrying out this act. This conclusion formed a critical basis for subsequent calls for thorough and independent investigations.
Calls for Prompt and Effective Investigations Renewed

Reiterating its established principles, Suhakam emphasised that investigations into alleged enforced disappearances must always be prompt, thorough, independent, impartial, and effective. The commission also renewed its urgent call for Malaysia to ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. Furthermore, Suhakam continues to advocate for the criminalisation of enforced disappearance as a distinct offence within Malaysia's domestic legal framework.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

How might judicial delays impact the search for truth in the Koh case?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends