Fatal Investigation at MACC

I was paralyzed with terror when I heard Teoh Beng Hock, a former reporter whom I met a few times at activities a few years ago, purportedly killed himself abruptly, despite his two-months pregnant fiancée still waiting at home to register their marriage the next day.

Teoh, the political secretary of Ean Yong Hean Wah (the Selangor state executive councilor) was brought in for investigations at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Selangor office in Shah Alam on Wednesday, and was said to have plunged himself from the building after MACC detained him for questioning over the alleged abuse and misappropriation of funds by his boss.

Fatal investigation at MACC building will not only create hatred among Malaysians, but also insecurity, panic and anxiety for the rakyat on entering Malaysian government bodies, especially if one were called in for investigation or held in custody.

Whilst I was struck with dismay, shudder in cold and shed tears reading about the tragedy, questions popped in my mind.

Was this mysterious death a suicide or foul play? If we were to rule out foul play, where and what are the proofs? How did MACC conduct interrogations on Teoh? Are there video recordings on the entire interrogation process? All his belongings, according to reports and updates, were with MACC, except his mobile phone. Where was it and why was he without his mobile phone during his death? When was Teoh’s last call or last sms (and to whom)? I hope the phone company which Teoh subscribed to, can provide this information, as to facilitate matters or produce them as evidence of the case.

This tragedy has left many of us sinking into despair. We must call for a Royal Commission to investigate the truth behind Teoh’s demise. Malaysians harbor hope in the MACC to address corruption matters in the country efficiently and professionally. Setting up a Royal Commission to probe into Teoh’s death is necessary to uphold the reputation and credibility of MACC; else the rakyat will definitely look at MACC with questions and doubts in mind.

My deepest condolence to the family and friends of the late Mr Teoh Beng Hock.