The Return of Elizabeth Wong

SUARAM welcomes the decision by the Selangor State government to retain Elizabeth Wong’s as state executive councilor and Bukit Lanjan assemblyperson. .

We view the Selangor state government’s decision as one which is in line with the will of the people. This decision is a watershed in the promotion of “new politics” – a concept which adheres strongly to human rights practices, especially the respect for the rights to privacy in this particular case.


Suaram is heartened with the statement make by Selangor Menteri Besar that “the State government is equally concerned in protecting the rights to privacy and will do its utmost to protect that right.”

We also view this decision as a step in the right direction in the battle against acts of gross violation of human rights and personal attacks by irresponsible individuals for their own political agenda. This is a minor victory in our quest for new politics in Malaysia .

We strongly deplore the statement made by Selangor state assembly opposition leader Khir Toyo that they will continue exploit this issue. Instead of scoring these cheap political points he should focus on other important and pending matters, including answering the accusation that he had misused state funds when he was the Menteri Besar of Selangor.


Suaram urges our politicians to focus their energies instead on building democratic governance and a vibrant human rights culture in Malaysia.

The return of Elizabeth Wong is strongly supported by the people. Her work as state executive councilor, especially in protecting the environment and implementing the practice of good governance, is highly recognised by the people at large. As such, the people will continue walk with her and defend her from any further attacks.

Suaram looks forward to working together with Elizabeth Wong on issues related to good governance and human rights.



Secretariat of
Suara Rakyat Malaysia (SUARAM)
16 April 2009.