YESTERDAY (Dec 4), I was unexpectedly blocked by the Malaysian immigration at the Penang International Airport from traveling to Banda Aceh (capital of Indonesia’s Aceh province) under instructions purportedly issued by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
I was en route to attend a significant event at the Istana Wali Nanggroe, the head of state of Aceh, where I was to receive a peace award in recognition of my role in facilitating the Helsinki Agreement on August 15, 2005.
This agreement successfully brought peace between the Jakarta and Gerakan Aceh Merdeka (GAM).
What makes this incident perplexing is that I have yet to be formally investigated by the MACC regarding allegations concerning the management of the Penang Hindu Endowments Board where I served as chairman for 13 years.
Despite voluntarily providing my statement to the MACC in this matter yesterday (Dec 4) afternoon, no charges or cases have been filed against me by the MACC or any other investigative agency.
Given this context, I fail to comprehend the justification for imposing a travel ban on me. I have committed no crime nor was I attempting to leave the country with no intention of returning.
Politically-motivated?
This action appears inconsistent with the principles of justice and fairness, particularly under a government that has repeatedly touted its commitment to openness and reform.
Sadly, the so-called Madani government seems no better than its predecessors.
While it champions reform in rhetoric, its actions – including restricting media freedom and empowering investigative agencies with unchecked authority – paint a different picture.
I cannot help but question whether this travel restriction has less to do with the MACC investigation and more to do with my political activities, particularly my role in founding the opposition United Rights of Malaysian Party (Urimai).
Could it be an attempt to stifle Urimai’s efforts to attract Indian support away from the Madani government?
Whatever the motive, I remain committed to cooperating fully with the authorities. However, I also remain firm in my belief that such actions undermine the principles of democracy, justice, fairness and accountability.
I hope the Madani government will move away from adopting cheap tactics to stifle dissent in the country.
The undemocratic measures adopted by the Madani government is a sad reflection of its growing unpopularity in the country. – Dec 5, 2024
Former DAP stalwart and Penang chief minister II Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy is chairman of the United Rights of Malaysian Party (Urimai) interim council.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
