THE Society for the Promotion of Human Rights (Proham) is greatly disappointed with the police investigation conducted on Citizen Action Group on Enforced Disappearance (CAGED) spokesman Rama Ramanathan, who is also a member of Proham. 

Rama said he is investigated under Section 504 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission Act, which deal with “intentional insult” and “the improper use of network facilities”, in relation to an article he wrote on the arrest of fellow activist Jufazli Shi Ahmad. It is also reported that police went to his apartment without a warrant and took away his laptop and phone.

Proham reiterates that freedom of speech and expression should be respected. It is a constitutional right guaranteed under Article 10(1)(a) of the federal constitution. The right to question, speak and write should be viewed as part and parcel of the right to the freedom of speech and expression.

Proham stands in solidarity with Rama and urges an end to police intimidation and to allow for freedom of expression to chart the course for a healthy democracy in Malaysia.

In relation to that, we would like to emphasise again the urgency for the government to institute the Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission (IPCMC) to provide the check and balance and monitor the immensely wide powers of the police. – November 8, 2019.

* Dr Khoo Ying Hooi is assistant secretary-general and Kuthubul Zaman is president of Proham.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.