By Nityaasini Sivagami
10 February: Relatives of detainees under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma) have begun a hunger strike outside Sungai Buloh prison after their visitation requests were denied. Around 50 protesters dressed in black gathered at 11:30 am, demanding Sosma’s repeal.
Sosma is a controversial law granting special security measures to maintain public order. M Logesvaran, 49, whose brother is detained, said families wanted to check on detainees’ well-being. However, officials denied visits, citing a five-day closure due to Thaipusam holidays. Logesvaran learned that 32 detainees had begun their own hunger strike, prompting family members to join in solidarity.
“All we ask is for just one family member to visit and confirm their well-being,” Logesvaran told reporters. The protest was organized by Suaram, a human rights group, which plans a press conference. Suaram’s executive director, Sevan Doraisamy, urged the government to send a representative to receive a memorandum from the families.
Families vow to continue their protest for as long as necessary to highlight the issue. Sosma permits bail only for minors, women, the ill, or disabled detainees, giving authorities broad powers against threats like terrorism and espionage. However, critics argue it violates Article 5 of the Federal Constitution, which safeguards fundamental rights.
(Source: Free Malaysia Today)
