Police urged to provide protection for Datuk Ambiga

Media Statement by Teresa Kok, Member of Parliament for Seputeh & DAP Wanita Secretary, Shah Alam, 18 May 2012

 

I am deeply troubled by the news today (18 May 2012) that an attempted break-in occurred at the office of Bersih Co-Chairperson and former Bar Council President Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan. I strongly call on the Malaysian police to immediately conduct a thorough and prompt investigation on the incident and to treat the break-in with a high level of seriousness in lieu of the continued harassment Ambiga has faced over the past weeks.

The safety of all members of society is paramount to a happy nation. In addition, the security of a well-supported and respected leader among the rakyat, is of even greater significance as this would ensure that there is no tension and dissatisfaction among Malaysians who look up to Ambiga for leadership and direction on the issue of free and fair elections.

In light of the attempted break-in, I would urge the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Datuk Seri Khalid Abu Bakar, to now reconsider his nonchalant approach towards the indecent and intimidating protests that took place outside Ambiga’s residence since May 10. Khalid’s refusal to take action against the protestors appears to have afforded strength and bravado to Ambiga’s detractors, given the break-in and as well the fact that she has reportedly been tailed by 2 unidentified persons over the past few days.

These intimidating acts must be nipped in the bud and the police must be proactive in affording safety and protection to Ambiga given her status as a leader among the rakyat.

I once again call on Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, as the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, to state his position on the harassment and threats towards Ambiga. Najib’s silence on these incidents, including the break-in, has created an impression that such acts should be allowed, tolerated and not condemned.

It is the duty of the head of the government and the chief of police to ensure that such incidents do not escalate. A noble and prominent figure such as Ambiga should be afforded the protection from harm, even if the nature of such safeguard is that of a verbal warning by the authorities against her intimidation.

– Teresa Kok