WE, the undersigned are appalled and disturbed at the attacks and death threats directed  at Nik Elin Zurina, a Kelantan-born lawyer, in connection to her case of challenging the  constitutionality of the Kelantan shariah laws. Such threats not only violate the principles of human decency but also stand as a crime in Malaysia.  

As stated in section 506 of the Penal Code, death threats are a criminal act that is punishable by a maximum sentence of seven years’ imprisonment, a fine or both.  

Nik Elin’s courageous stance to challenge the constitutionality and validity of shariah laws enacted by the Kelantan assembly highlights the critical need to protect and defend the supremacy of the Federal Constitution. It is alarming to see harassment, attacks and death threats directed at Nik Elin, especially as they appear to be an attempt to suppress and  silence her for speaking out against injustice. 

We urge the public to refrain from disseminating hate, issuing threats and  encouraging violence aimed at Nik Elin. It is crucial to recognise that death threats, whether made on social media platforms or in person, are an act of extremism and must not be tolerated. We also call upon the authorities to take action against the perpetrators responsible for such threats. – August 26, 2023.

* Letter is endorsed by Joint Action Group for Gender Equality: 

1. All Women’s Action Society

2. Association of Women Lawyers

3. Family Frontiers 

4. Justice for Sisters

5. KRYSS Network  

6. Perak Women for Women Society

7. Sabah Women’s Action-Resource Group

8. Sarawak Women for Women Society

9. Sisters in Islam

10.Women’s Aid Organisation

11.Women’s Centre for Change

Other organisations: 

1. Centre For Independent Journalism

2. Freedom Film Network

3. Malaysian Action For Justice And Unity

4. Reproductive Rights Advocacy Alliance Malaysia

5. Suara Rakyat Malaysia.