KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 — DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke said the apology from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on the death of former political aide Teoh Beng Hock was long overdue.
At a press conference following MACC chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki’s rare statement marking the 16th anniversary of Teoh’s death, Loke said the public apology was a long waited-gesture that reflected the government’s willingness to reckon with past wrongs.
“After 16 years this is the first time MACC made a public apology. I think that is the least they must do. It is long overdue but welcome it as a necessary act of transitional justice,” he told reporters when met at DAP headquarters today.
Teoh, who was a political aide to a Selangor DAP assemblyman, died in 2009 after falling from the MACC headquarters while under investigation.
His death sparked national outrage and ongoing calls for justice.
Loke said that despite the apology and offer of monetary compensation the case is not closed yet.
“This does not mean that justice has been served. The case remains open and investigations by authorities, including the police, must continue until the full truth is revealed.
“The government’s offer of a goodwill contribution to support the welfare and educational needs of Teoh’s child who is 15 now still remains and we entrust the management of the funds to Madam Soh Cher Wei, Teoh’s widow.
“At any point in time if new evidence emerges, DAP affirms its unwavering commitment to provide full legal support. As investigations remain incomplete and the results have yet to meet the Teoh family’s expectations, the DAP extends its deepest respect and sorrow to the family,” he said — after which he, Teo Nie Ching, Selangor DAP chief Ng Sze Han and Teoh’s former boss Ean Yong Hian Wah bowed silently for over 30 seconds before the crowd.
Teoh’s family refused the monetary offer yesterday.
