I strongly support and stand in solidarity with Zhao Mingfu’s sister, Zhao Lilan, who recently spoke at the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, highlighting that the Zhao Mingfu case has remained unresolved for 17 years without fair accountability. By bringing the case to the international human rights platform, Zhao Lilan is not only seeking justice for her brother but also speaking up for all victims and families who have lost their lives under the detention system.
Looking back, the People’s Justice Party (PKR) and Democratic Action Party (DAP), while still opposition parties at the time, actively supported the Zhao family and called for a thorough investigation. I deeply respect their commitment to justice. However, these parties are now part of the federal government and hold the largest number of parliamentary seats. Yet, in response to the “No Further Action (NFA)” outcome, they merely expressed regret and have taken no substantive action. This inconsistency is deeply disappointing and has severely undermined public confidence in law enforcement and governmental accountability mechanisms.
The Zhao Mingfu case highlights the long-standing problem of “impunity” within Malaysia’s detention system. According to a 2017 report by Suara Rakyat Malaysia (SUARAM), from 2002 to March 2017, a total of 1,658 individuals died in detention centers nationwide—a deeply alarming figure. Failure to conduct independent, transparent, and comprehensive investigations into these cases will only heighten public concerns about the lack of oversight and transparency in our enforcement system.
I choose to stand with Zhao Lilan because, for the past 17 years, the Zhao family has tirelessly pursued justice, even in the face of slander and political exploitation, demonstrating unwavering perseverance in seeking the truth. Such commitment cannot be ignored by any governing authority.
I again call on the government to:
1. Immediately launch an independent criminal investigation in accordance with international human rights standards to fully investigate the Zhao Mingfu case and hold all responsible parties accountable.
2. Actively respond to the requests of UN Special Procedures experts, implementing an independent investigation mechanism to ensure that deaths in detention are not ignored.
3. Publish a complete and transparent investigation white paper and implement systemic reforms to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Justice may be delayed, but it must never be absent. The perseverance of Zhao Lilan and her family reminds all citizens that defending human rights and the dignity of life is fundamental to any democratic and law-abiding nation. We must continue to follow this case and work toward truth and justice, showing society that justice has never been absent.
Tham Yun Fook
N19 Likas State Assemblymen
