On 13 May, the family of the late J Soosaimanicckam submitted a memorandum to the Attorney General’s Chambers, urging the police to investigate his death.
The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) expresses deep concern over the prolonged delay in the pursuit of justice for the late naval cadet Soosaimanicckam, who tragically lost his life during a training session in 2017.
In July 2024, the Ipoh High Court classified his death as homicide. The High Court had ruled that the death was a result of navy officers denying him medical treatment for leptospirosis.
In the light of the High Court ruling, it is imperative that the police expedite their investigation and ensure those responsible are held accountable under the law.
19 May commemorates seven years since his passing. The fact that seven years have passed without resolution is a serious indictment of the justice system’s ability to protect the rights of victims and their families against criminal wrongdoings.
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Justice delayed is denied justice. In this case, prolonged inaction undermines public trust in state institutions, particularly, law enforcement agencies.
As mandated by its role, Suhakam had been holding watching briefs in this case, and has been actively monitoring the case since 2018.
Whilst we recognise the complexity of cases involving state actors, Suhakam stresses that no institution should be immune from scrutiny when there is credible evidence of rights violations.
This case is not only a matter of justice for one family but a testament to the broader principles enshrined in the Federal Constitution. Article 5(1) guarantees that “No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty save in accordance with law”.
The tragic and preventable death of Soosaimanicckam, coupled with institutional inaction, amounts to a failure to uphold this fundamental right.
The case also implicates international human rights standards, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
Article 3 of the UDHR guarantees the right to life, liberty and security of person.
Article 8 ensures that everyone has the right to an effective remedy by competent national tribunals for acts violating fundamental rights granted by the constitution or by law.
The prolonged delay in investigation contravenes these human rights principles.
Suhakam urges the police and the Attorney General’s Chambers to act with urgency, impartiality and transparency.
The family of the late Soosaimanicckam deserves justice and closure, and the public deserves assurance that all deaths in custody or under state supervision are properly investigated and those responsible held accountable.
Suhakam further calls for a clear timeline for the investigation and prosecution processes. There must be regular updates to be communicated to the family, and independent oversight to ensure the integrity of the investigation.
Suhakam remains committed to upholding justice, transparency and human rights and will continue to monitor the developments in this case closely. – Suhakam
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