We have lost a great son, brother, friend and comrade. His life has been taken too early under mysterious circumstances. But the truth must be revealed.

The truth is that he was called to be questioned by the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission. (MACC.) And he was questioned from the evening till the wee hours of the morning. The truth is that the state was becoming repressive and laying a well planned attack on honest representatives of the people in the Selangor state government who were fighting corruption.

Questions emerge as to why Teo needed to be questioned to the early hours of the morning when he was just a witness. What form did the interrogation or questioning or investigations take? What standards were being used and what form of oversight was in place so that rights of Teo were protected and addressed. What levels of transparency was practiced? And why were his lawyers not allowed to be nearby for him to consult and clarify, if he needed advice.

Neither the MACC nor the police can investigate. They will be biased as we know both these agencies are being used to attack a democratically elected opposition and state government. Tenaganita supports the call for an independent royal commission of inquiry to be instituted to ensure justice is seen to be done and that persons and institution are made responsible for Teo’s death. The years of assurance of transparency and integrity has only been met with more defence for the corrupt. Teo’s death is testimony to what extent this defence for the corrupt has developed.

Teo’s life has been taken but not what he stood and fought for. Everyone who knew him says he was gentle, honest, caring, struggling for justice, truth and democracy. The baton is now with us. The candles can be extinguished. But the spirit and light within us will be even stronger and move further and further to new people and new areas.

Irene Fernandez
Director
Tenaganita

no politics please
someone shouted back at him
that really riled me

someone’s dead damn it
if we can’t be right what’s left
don’t outrage me please

A valediction forbidding political correctness. Teoh Beng Hock plunged to his death at the Selangor head office of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission on July 2009 in mysterious circumstances.

he was but a guest
of the corruption busters
but ended up dead
suicide comes to mind

but he was to be married
think of something else
what a reception
till early morn they kept him

tell us how he died
don’t accuse wrongly
let the police do their work
crackdown on protest

1Malaysia but
2 timing really
3 if we still keep silent

An ode to Teoh Beng Hock, 30, political secretary to Selangor executive council member, Ean Yong Hian Wah. He plunged to his death in suspicious circumstances on 16 July 2009 from a building where the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is located. He was taken in by the MACC the previous evening to supposedly help them in a corruption probe and was detained till early the following day – the day he was to be married.

So I emerge today from my several months of silence and non-involvement to say that what transpired yesterday is immoral, unacceptable and unconscionable.

Why was a witness being held for questioning for ten hours and only released at 3.45am? What kind of case is it and what is the urgency of the case in question that the witness had to be deprived of sleep and forcibly kept awake till 3.45am? Was the nation deemed to be in grave danger had the witness in question been sent home at a respectable time and asked to report again for questioning the next morning?

The nation could endure long years of waiting over so many other much longer pending cases involving so much more public money and have much greater weight in public interest but this particular case could not wait for the next morning when the witness in question would have been fresher and better rested?

What kind of interrogation was he subjected to on the fateful night without end? Why was it that a witness had to be isolated from his lawyer and forced to be in the sole company of officers with no other neutral person/s present? Because he was in the sole company of officers who were interrogating him, how would his side of the story be ever told? And how would, why should the officers in question be trusted when they tell the nation what actually transpired during that fateful night the witness lost his life?

There were no other witness/es present so how would these officers in question clear their own involvement or clear their own names in this sad story?

Isn’t it true that a medical doctor should carry out the examination of a patient of the opposite sex in the presence of at least one other person? This is a wise procedure so that should any allegation of wrongful conduct be raised against him or her, the doctor would have some neutral testimony to defend him or her.

There have been too many instances of contravention against natural justice in this country involving the agencies and instruments of state. There have been too many victims. The neutrality of these instruments of state is questionable.

I CANNOT REMAIN NEUTRAL ABOUT ISSUES OF MORALITY.

This is not about partisan politics. I expect my friends from both sides of the parliamentary divide to speak up. I expect to hear from all political parties and all who hold public office at all levels to speak up. I want especially to hear from Maximus Ongkili, Bernard Dompok, Lee Hwa Beng, Loh Seng Kok who publicly profess the Christian Faith to speak up.

I expect the churches and the church leadership to speak up including those I know personally such as Hwa Yung, Ng Moon Hing and many others.

Of course all of the above persons should state their own views and even fault my manner of speaking or reasoning. But silence is not an option. Leaders do not have the option of keeping their opinion to themselves. They must lend their voices to voices which have been silenced.

A young life has been lost on the very eve of his wedding. Siblings, parents, colleagues and a fiance are in inconsolable grief. WHY SO? WHO WILL BE NEXT?

Originally published on July 17, 2009 in onGOHing by Goh Keat Peng.

Five Muslim students lodged a police report after claiming they were given pamphlets on Christianity at University Putra Malaysia in Serdang, just south of Kuala Lumpur, local media reported. The Christian youths were released on bail.

Annou Xavier, the Christian youths’ lawyer, told UCA News the nine were only visiting their friends on campus when they were detained. He added that of the nine, two are students from the university, three are local youths, and four are youths from Hong Kong. Local media said the nine are members of a Christian organization.

Xavier said police are investigating the matter and the youths have to report on July 23 to the police to face the charges. He noted that the police are often quick to act on allegations of attempts to convert Muslims.

Local media said the nine might have been mistakenly arrested because several people were earlier reportedly distributing Christian material on the campus grounds.

In Muslim-majority Malaysia, it is forbidden to proselytize Muslims, and Muslims are not allowed to convert to another religion.

Originally published in UCAN News, 15 July 2009

For further news, see:

• BBC : Religious Row Flares in Malaysia

The first known HIV case in Malaysia was in 1986 , since then we have about 85,000 cases (2008 ), mainly drug dependents ( 77% ). In 1990 the first HIV person to approach us in Malaysian Care, a Christian social concern organisation founded in 1979, was a drug dependent, just released from a government rehabilitation centre, carrying a piece of paper, certifying he was tested positive for HIV. Thus, we were thrust into a response to the needs of this man. We hardly knew anything about AIDS, save that it was a fearful disease and that it had to do with drugs dependents, homosexuals, sex workers and the like. But, help we must, since we knew our clear mandate to serve the poor and marginalised, especially drug dependents and prisoners. Later we got ourselves trained on AIDS awareness by the only people who were competent then, a homosexual NGO in the city. This didn’t go down well with some church leaders who got to know about the training. Anyway , armed with the new knowledge and purpose, we ventured to receive more drug dependents for counselling and practical help both in our drop in centre and in the prisons and streets.

Those drug dependents who were also HIV wanted to be in our residential drug rehabilitation programmes. But the residential workers inspite of the AIDS awareness training did not feel comfortable to take in the PLWHAs. So, we conversed more and prayed along that there may be some breakthrough in their confidence. Two weeks later, the leader of the mens’ home approached me and said they were now ready….but on one condition; that all utensils and the toiletries and beddings be personalised, with each person’s name be marked on their respective items. So, it was agreed, and so it was done. There were some apprehensions in the air as the first PWLHAs were admitted with others. The centre had a maximum of 18 people. We made sure that the PWLHAs did not handle the knives in the kitchen. Meals were served to the ‘customised’ utensils and food were consumed with gusto! Toothbrushes and shavers followed , and life went on…

Two weeks or so later, when the washing of the plates, spoons and saucers gradually erased the markings thereon, the residents and the staff did not bother to write on it again! The lessons of awareness and the fellowship of togetherness brought to mind and hearts that they were all the same, addicts and ex addicts trying to make it, to share in a faith that calls for love and humility, amidst some who had HIV within, but is not contagious by air or by touch, or through food nor drink, not transmittable at all if you don’t want it, unlike the common cold or mosquito bite. It was a very good feeling to see the breakthrough in trust and love, winning over fear and discrimination.

When the Son of Man comes in all his glory………
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me…..
The King will reply, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did to one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me……
Matthew 25:31-46

When you are dealing with a prisoner who is a drug dependent, and now is HIV/ AIDS you are encompassing all of the Son of Man’s concerns in his eschatological roundup. We want to be true to the Master’s calling and concerns, nay, we want to do unto him as we do unto others, and we can.

Renewed with testimonies, fresh experiences and a clear call to break the silence, fear and stigmatisation of AIDS, we ventured to speak, teach and witness to any person or group or church who would give us the audience and opportunity. So, we went, to a group, a school, a church, a college, a home, an individual, one at a time, often with a PLWH, to put a face to the reality and to show people the humanity, that they may see , hear, feel and perhaps touch and be liberated to accept and care.

The other strategic target were the Christian drug rehabilitation centres ( CDRCs ) who were initially reluctant to accept the many growing numbers of HIV drug dependents who were seeking help. We persuaded them to have us to train the staff and leaders of at least 25 CDRCs all over the country. One by one , cluster by cluster they slowly began to receive the first PLWHs into their rehabilitation programmes. We promised to supply them with some medical paraphernalia and quick response to any emergencies or complications, and further training of new staff.

Surely, as we made our involvement in AIDS more well known, we received varied enquiries and calls from PLWHAs who were not from the marginalised communities, both individuals and families. Church leaders called when members or their relatives need help, we travelled far and wide often to isolated cases where we could not hold back our tears in the flow of their fears and sorrows, dried of tears in the scorching heat of discrimination, stigmatisation and hopelessness. Otherwise, we asked God for more strength, more love, more grace, less ignorance, less fear, less hardness of heart, less judgmentalism….. less pain.

And the numbers increased, in the prisons and government rehabilitation centres, one in five drug dependents were tested HIV positive. Then one in four. Time to work in the places of incarceration. We developed peer training courses for the prisoners, both in awareness and simple nursing, so that they can train and care for one another in the cells. Basic relief medicine, bandages and aids were solicited and given to the HIV Block. ( the HIV prisoners were grouped and segregated from others )

More emphasis was given in awareness to the general prison population. In the weekly sermons and teaching, AIDS messages were added, these were very vulnerable populations and they must know and pass on the knowledge to others. It was very encouraging to receive letters and write ups from the prisoners especially the HIV prisoners, thanking and telling of the benefits of the training. Upon release some of them came straight to our half-way homes and were further help and followed up. Some volunteered to be involved in our awareness and education programmes, testifying, witnessing to the transformations God had done in their lives. Many have since passed on.

When the AIDS issue surfaced into the media in the earlier days, the Ministry of Health (MOH) was called to invite NGOs and groups who were initially involved to organise ourselves. So, Malaysian Care was included with the pioneer meetings and brainstorming as the situation of HIV/AIDS increased. We debated and made our policies, and operations along the way, eventually with the backing of the MOH, we were registered as an NGO of affiliates known as Malaysian AIDS Council ( MAC ).

As a NGO with many organisations involved directly with people living with HIV/AIDS, we have come a long way, working with the various government departments, the corporate sectors, religious groups, media and others have contributed to much awareness, advocacy, development of policies both on a private, public and governmental levels. I remember being involved with MAC office bearers and representatives ( including many grassroots and marginalised communities ) to the many meetings and consultations with the MOH officials, Home Affairs and Security representatives, the Prime Minister, Religious Departments, Police, Prisons, CEOs, other NGOs and Community Based Organisations, International Organisations and Regional meetings.

Yes, to get maximum effectiveness and long term effects, it is imperative to work with as many people or entities as possible, especially with those who are in a position to be of greater influence and be able create and sustain structures the will benefit the targeted groups.

At first, the Bible school rejected the applicant, because he was HIV positive, well not so obvious at first. But we, know the drill, fear and ignorance can cause havoc to one’s faith. Any disease that is treated as a mystery and acutely enough feared will be felt to be morally, if not literally contagious.¹ AIDS is a test, a trial, that has failed many, many a pseudo-, many a religious person, many a spiritual saint. Many are ignorant, more are fearful, but all is not lost, many can be redeemed, many can be made aware and be trained, to turn around this tainted period that have broken God’s heart and revealed how shallow and bankrupt we are really, practically in compassion, justice and sacrifice.

Some years later, another HIV applicant surfaced, but this time the Bible college, called us to come and conduct awareness with the student body and faculty, upon receiving the applicant. Another seminary looked into the drafting of a positive policy for HIV positive students and we were called to the awareness training not only for the institution of students and faculty, but also for the board of governors. Since then, we take it that we will regularly visit to encourage and to train the new students. Other seminaries, have called us to run credit courses on HIV/AIDS !

“It is now common knowledge that in HIV/AIDS, it is not the condition itself that hurt most (because many other diseases and conditions lead to serious suffering and death), but the stigma and the possibility of rejection and discrimination; misunderstanding and loss of trust that HIV positive people have to deal with.”
– Rev. Canon Gideon Byamugisha – ² (who is himself HIV positive )

A grandma , became HIV positive because of her drug dependent husband. He dies, the secret is out, the daughter- in- law refuses to allow the grandchildren to be touched by grandma. The son is caught in- between, cold war, grandma relents, she leaves the house and stays in a rented room – sadness and loneliness, anguish and guilt, shame and despair. Thoughts of suicide was never far away. Later we managed to put her up in a home, where there is company, and that she may be able to stick to an antiretroviral regime , and where there are children in the home for her to hold and touch.

A child, is denied to attend a church related kindergarten, because it is found out that her father died of AIDS. A staff is sent to advocate, but unsuccessful. The HIV widowed mother struggles to support the four children , one of whom was tested positive, we provided her with some financial support through a church welfare. We then started and nurtured a widows support group as the number of mothers and widows who were HIV grew, which meets twice a year , ( the women always look forward to it ) with the children meeting / playing on the side.

And the stories go on and will be repeated anyway you go where there is HIV/AIDS.

Unless and until we are clearly aware of the Disease, what it is , how it is transmitted, who are the victims and sufferers, what are the real consequences, and then respond in the love, justice and humility, always focusing on Jesus and his dealings with the sick, poor and marginalised, we cannot be said and seen to be true followers of God.

Therefore, in response to the issue of ‘ The Mission of the Church in an Age of Pandemics ‘ it is very clear that the mandate calls for action that is based on knowledge, research, interdependence, urgency, compassion, justice and intentional effectiveness. As mentioned earlier, pandemics management involves many fields and disciplines. So, let the experts and professionals do what they do best and to learn from them. With the knowledge, data, and resources available, let us be focused on the People and the Virus ( Disease ), and the Call to heal, to love, and to be just, we can make a difference with redemption!

Previously In The Series

» A Theological & Practical Response To “World Pandemics” (Part 1)
» A Theological & Practical Response To “World Pandemics” (Part 2)

1. Susan Sontag,
   “Illness as Metaphor and AIDS as Its Metaphor”
   (Anchor Books, 1990)
2. Rev. Canon Gideon Byamugisha,
   “Plan of Action: The Ecumenical response to HIV/AIDS in Africa”
   ( 2000)

Selangor Social Welfare Department

‘Department deputy director-general (operations) Halijah Yahaya said the situation at the home had actually “improved over the last few years.”

“If you think this is bad, you should have seen this place a few years ago. Now the floors are all tiled and things here are more organised and well-managed,” said Halijah, adding that the home managed to provide a decent shelter for the residents and protect them from harm.

“Imagine if these people are not taken in and have been left wandering the streets.

“They are vulnerable to all sorts of danger and harm. Some have been known to be molested,” she said.

Halijah stressed that the institution also had in-house psychiatrists and physicians to care for the residents.

“As for the condition of the place, we have done our best and this is the best from us,” she said, adding that it was not easy having to take care of the mentally challenged.

The Bar Council

‘The treatment of the Taman Sinar Harapan residents is a “clear breach” of the Government’s obligation under international laws to provide mentally disabled patients with the best medical care.

Bar Council constitutional law committee chairman Edmund Bon said he was shocked to learn how the residents were being treated, describing it as “cruel and degrading”.

“The Government is obliged to provide certified mentally disabled people with the highest attainable health services under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

“The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which was signed by Malaysia last year, also imposed on us to give mental patients the right to health,” said Bon.

“But the treatment at this home has violated that convention.”

Bon urged the Government to review its policies regarding health care for the disabled.”

Referring to the first reaction, it is regrettable that a senior government officer in the Social Welfare Department should display such an unsympathetic attitude towards persons who are mentally challenged. Also, she appears to lack any real understanding of their rights to receive humane treatment and skilled help to lead a meaningful life in the community.

Fortunately, we have some encouraging news next week!!

(Psalm 145; 1-3 New International Version)

We can learn these verses by heart and use them throughout the day. But we must remember that God wants us to praise him not only with our LIPS but also with our LIVES.

For the longest time, I have held three truths to be true.

Firstly, there are many around me whose work with migrant and refugees I admire tremendously – they inspire and encourage me. They have taken cases to court for labour disputes, defended refugees for immigration offenses, given of their time and money to help the marginalised, remained steadfast through difficulties, made personal sacrifices, and done their best through challenging circumstances. Most of their work is done without public display; it is done because their hearts are moved by those who suffer. They see needs and they respond. They try their best to overcome their fears; they learn as quickly as they can as they move through uncharted territory. Their work, I believe, triumphs any day over mine.

Secondly, when we see suffering, it is incumbent upon us to do what we can. The truth is that most of us who work with migrants and refugees can walk away at any time, but the migrants and refugees themselves can’t walk away from their own lives. We can put them aside from our minds, create distance, and get back to our own concerns. But if the reasons for their vulnerability do not change; if the underlying causes of their suffering remain unaddressed, then others will go through what they have suffered unnecessarily. We know that we have limited resources, limited knowledge, and limited influence. This is not an excuse; it is a challenge we need to overcome. It will take time, patience, courage, and tenacity. We have two choices – to walk away, or to do whatever we can. We each choose our own way, one step at a time.

Thirdly, for change to happen, all of us need to do an ordinary little bit. The word “hero” is grandiose, and relegates achievements to a ‘chosen’ few with ’special powers’ – Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Achilles, Hector, Spiderman. What this world really needs is more ordinary people doing ordinary things, at the right time and with the right heart – saying a word of encouragement, giving a hug, volunteering time and resources, bringing integrity to work, loving friends and family more excellently… these are what makes a real difference. And the true heroes are those who do these consistently, with sacrifice and without recognition.

All of us are heroes; and all of us are surrounded by heroes.

This is the beauty of life, and it is in the ordinary.

Originally published on 22 June, 2009 by Alice Nah. Republished with permission. Alice is a researcher who examines the interconnections between citizenship and migration. She is one of the coordinators of the Migration Working Group, a network of civil society groups and individuals advocating for the protection of the rights of migrants, refugees and stateless persons.

Alice was recently named in the US State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report 2009 as one of the 2009 Trafficking in Persons Report heroes. The report stated that Alice had raised government and public awareness through online articles describing the plight of trafficking victims, refugees, and migrant workers.

Do we know this fact? Do we really believe it when everything seems to be going against us?