Aliran is deeply disturbed by the Malaysian authorities’ revocation of the work permit of a Bangladeshi national, Md Rayhan Kabir, for having expressed his feelings in a controversial Al Jazeera documentary.
The revocation has raised more questions than answers about the controversial detention of migrant workers amid the coronavirus pandemic. It does little to shed light on the treatment of migrants, especially in immigration detention centres.
For one, doesn’t Rayhan, although a foreigner, have the right to express his concern generally about the recent detention of hundreds of migrant workers, especially in the context of the widespread xenophobia displayed by Malaysians?
Does his work permit revocation indicate that Rayhan was wrong in his comment about the situation on the ground at the time?
Or, on the contrary, was he saying the truth to Al Jazeera which the authorities desperately want to hide from public scrutiny?
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So, what is the truth that the government wants Malaysians to know regarding the issue?
Sending the Rayhans back to their home countries may not necessarily enlighten Malaysians and others who want to know the truth and seek justice.
The Malaysian authorities could have adopted a more sober approach ie by highlighting to the media what they believe were the inaccuracies in Rayhan’s comments and clarifying the real situation faced by migrants, including those in detention.
Aliran executive committee13 July 2020
AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
- Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
- Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
- Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
- Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
- Lawan rasuah dan kronisme
I think authorities should engage in a dialogue with Al Jazeera . It is the most unwise thing to revoke his work permit as he would have no idea and probably will leave Malaysia in a bitter state of mind not truely understanding why he is being sent home . Do remember the media can be one’s worst enemy or one’s ally. This statement by no means indicate that the press should be feared. I like to believe that all journalists wants to bring the truth to the people and the world unless they (reporters, journalists) proves themselves unworthy of that . First is he Rayhan aware that under no circumstances that a barricated cordoned off area by authorities simply means no one without the rightful permit should NOT enter ?! What more with Covid19
Md Rayhan Kabir is on a work permit , so hardly a surprise that he is victimised for speaking out.
Even the rakyat, whose rights are enshrined in the constitution is harassed and intimidated by the security units of this backdoor govt. for speaking out against injustice and unfairness.