Statement by Suhakam
The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has decided to conduct a Public Inquiry into allegations of violations of human rights, including, the use of excessive force by the authorities prior to and during the public assembly on 9 July 2011.
The Panel of Inquiry will be chaired by the Commission’s Vice-Chairman Professor Dr Khaw Lake Tee and assisted by Commissioners Professor Dr Mahmood Zuhdi b. Abdul Majid and Mr Detta Samen.
The terms of reference of the Public Inquiry are:
1. To determine whether there were any violations of the human rights of any person or party prior to and during the public assembly on 9th July 2011;
2. If violations of human rights did occur, to determine
i. How such violations came about;
ii. What administrative directives and procedures, or arrangements contributed to such violations; and
iii. Which person or agency was responsible for such violations.
3. To recommend measures to be taken to ensure that such violations do not recur.
The Commission’s Power to Subpoena Witnesses
Subpoenas will be issued in due course to relevant witnesses including members of the public, the press and the Police. This power will be exercised pursuant to section 14(1)(a) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 which empowers the Commission to procure and receive all such evidence, written or oral, and to examine all such persons as witnesses as the Commission thinks necessary or desirable to procure or examine.
Calling for Public Submissions
The Commission hereby calls for public submissions of evidence and information following the allegations of amongst others, use of excessive force by the authorities prior to and during the public assembly on 9 July 2011.
Members of the public who had witnessed any acts or incidents relating to such allegations, or who believe that they may be able to give relevant information and/or documents and other evidence including video/photo recordings pertaining to these or other such allegations are invited to contact the Commission as soon as possible.
The deadline for public submission is 2nd August 2011.
For enquires and public submission kindly contact:
Encik Ameer Izyanif Hamzah or Encik Shahizad Sulaiman
Suhakam
Level 13, Menara TH Perdana
50250 Jalan Sultan Ismail
Tel : 03 2612 5669 / 5623
Fax : 03 2612 5620 / 5694
Email : [email protected] / [email protected]
Admin
Jimmy Tan
