Teoh Beng Hock’s family still seeks justice
The public’s anger over Teoh Beng Hock’s death has faded over time, but the Teoh family and the Teoh Beng Hock Association for Democratic Advancement (TBH-ADA) continue to fight for justice, said Seri Kembangan assemblyman Wong Siew Ki.
“The public’s anger was palpable 15 years ago, but it has faded over time, and many now feel hopeless in the quest for justice and truth.
“Only the Teoh family continues to fight, along with the TBH-ADA,” she said on Facebook after attending Teoh Beng Hock’s 15th-anniversary memorial service yesterday.
Wong hopes that one day, the memorial service will no longer serve as a reminder that justice still sought.
“Instead, it will become an occasion to honour Beng Hock’s sacrifice and remind future generations that Malaysia’s democracy is built upon the lives and blood of those who died in custody, like Beng Hock.
“Justice will prevail, and we will persist until we find answers,” she said.
Wong revealed that irresponsible comments often surface whenever the memorial service takes place.
“Irresponsible comments like “exploiting Teoh Beng Hock’s death” and accusations that the Beng Hock family is merely seeking sympathy and putting on an act frequently appear in the comments section of social media articles every time the memorial ceremony is held,” she said.
She questioned whether those making such comments have ever participated in the Teoh family’s quest for justice or truly understand their 15-year struggle.
“If they do, how can they claim to speak on behalf of the family with statements like ‘let Beng Hock rest’?” she asked.
Wong said she can sympathise as a politician who faced criticism and malicious attacks routinely.
“As someone active in politics, facing both constructive criticism and malicious attacks is part of the routine.
“However, I believe in continuing to do what I can.
“If I can contribute by organizing the memorial service, I will,” she said.
She has been helping DAP politician Ean Yong Hian Wah with Beng Hock’s memorial service since 2014 and has managed the event nine times over the past decade.
The only exception is the year 2020 when the memorial service was not held due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
On July 16, 2009, Beng Hock, an aide to Ean, was found dead shortly after being questioned by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
His death was deemed suspicious by the TBH-ADA, which has called for a comprehensive investigation to reveal the truth.