Detaining youth protesters has ‘chilling effect’ on anti-corruption activism – G25

We, the members of G25, are deeply concerned with the arrest and subsequent remand of the three youths who protested at an event attended by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner, Azam Baki on 7 April in Kuala Lumpur.

Based on reports, the protests were non-violent in nature.

While we acknowledge that authorities had a duty to maintain public order and ensure the safety of all those present at the event, it must be remembered that enforcement measures must always be proportionate and appropriate to the circumstances.

In this instance, simply requesting and escorting the youths to leave the venue would have been deemed a sufficient and measured response.

However, the decision to arrest and remand them for three days was excessive and disproportionate to their actions. Investigations could still have taken place without the detention of the youths, and should not be used as an excuse for unnecessary detention.

We note with relief that the youths have since been released a day early ahead of the full remand period.

While this is a welcome development, it does not diminish concerns over the necessity and proportionality of the initial arrest and remand. The use of detention in such circumstances raises broader questions about how dissent is being treated.

The Federal Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of speech and expression, which includes the right to express dissent, particularly on matters of public interest such as integrity, governance and allegations of corruption.

The expression of such views through non-violent means, especially by young people in Malaysia, though disruptive, should not be met with punitive measures.

Not only does the use of remand in these circumstances set a troubling and dangerous precedent where speaking out could lead to an arrest and detention, such actions also risk being perceived as an attempt to silence voices, including those advocating for transparency and accountability.

This will have a chilling effect on anti-corruption activism and broader public engagement, which are essential pillars in the fight against corruption and the strengthening of democratic governance.

At a time when the “Madani” (trustworthy) government has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to reform, integrity and the principles of good governance, it is vital that these commitments are reflected in practice.

Rather than resorting to arrest and detention, this incident could have been approached as an opportunity for constructive engagement – listening to the concerns raised by the youths, encouraging civic participation, and reinforcing public confidence in the nation’s institutions, as well as to assuring the public that something is indeed being done regarding the allegations of corruption surrounding the MACC chief commissioner.

It is time for the government to exercise a little introspection as greater openness, timely disclosure of information, and a willingness to engage constructively with legitimate concerns would help reduce the need for such acts of protest from the public.

G25 calls on the government to ensure that all enforcement remains consistent with constitutional guarantees, the rule of law, and internationally recognised standards on fundamental liberties.

We, G25, would like to reiterate our stance on the need for a transparent and credible resolution on the allegations of corruption surrounding the MACC chief commissioner.

The government must provide clarity on the status of its investigation into this matter, particularly in the light of alleged reports that the findings of the investigation may have already been submitted to the prime minister.

The public is entitled to know the outcome.

Any perception that the matter will be allowed to lapse without full accountability, whether through inaction or by permitting a quiet exit into another public office, as is rumoured may happen, would seriously undermine public confidence in the government’s commitment to integrity and give the public more reason to protest.

Such an approach would damage Malaysia’s standing and credibility, both regionally and internationally, and most importantly in the eyes of our people.

Malaysia’s progress as a mature and democratic society depends not only on maintaining order, but on safeguarding the space for lawful dissent, encouraging open dialogue, and upholding accountability at all levels in the country. – G25

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