Malaysia's DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke on Thursday led party leaders in a solemn 30-second bow to the family of Teoh Beng Hock, 16 years after the political aide’s death in custody rocked the nation and sparked a still-unresolved demand for justice.
[Refer my June 09, 2025 post "Justice for Teoh Beng Hock"].
The silent tribute took place at the DAP headquarters here in Kuala Lumpur, just before Loke welcomed the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s (MACC) public apology on Wednesday over Teoh’s death – calling it “long overdue”.
Speaking at a press conference following a rare statement by MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki to mark the anniversary, Loke said the apology was a long-awaited gesture that signalled the government’s willingness to confront past injustices.
“After 16 years, this is the first time MACC has issued a public apology. I think that is the least they must do. It’s long overdue, but we welcome it as a necessary act of transitional justice”, he told reporters.
Teoh, who was the political aide to a Selangor DAP assemblyperson, died in 2009 after falling from the then-Selangor MACC office while under interrogation. His death sparked national outrage and persistent demands for accountability.
Loke stressed that despite the apology and the offer of monetary compensation, the case is far from over.
“This does not mean that justice has been served. The case remains open, and investigations by authorities – including the police – must continue until the full truth is revealed,” he said.
Loke added that the government’s goodwill contribution to support the welfare and education of Teoh’s 15-year-old child still stands, and will be managed by Teoh’s widow, Soh Cher Wei.
“At any point in time if new evidence emerges, DAP affirm their unwavering commitment to provide full legal support. As investigations remain incomplete and the results have yet to meet the Teoh family’s expectations, the DAP extends their deepest respect and sorrow to the family”, he said.
Loke was joined by deputy secretary-general Teo Nie Ching, Selangor DAP chairman Ng Sze Han, and Teoh’s former employer Ean Yong Hian Wah during the bow.
Teoh’s family rejected the monetary offer on Wednesday.
Women's doubles Pearly Tan-Thinaah Muralitharan secured their maiden semi-final appearance at the Japan Open with a battling display in Tokyo yesterday.
World No. 3 Pearly-Thinaah defeated South Korea's world No. 69 Jeong Na Eun-Lee Yeon Woo 21-15, 21-19 in the quarter-finals. The Malaysians will play Japan's world No. 2 Nami Matsuyama-Chiharu Shida in the last four.
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