Detainees held under Malaysia's security law Sosma end hunger strike

SUNGAI BULOH (BERNAMA, THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) - A total of 118 detainees held under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act (Sosma) 2012 at Malaysia's Sungai Buloh Prison ended their hunger strike on Sunday (Aug 26).

Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Mohamed Hanipa Maidin said an agreement was reached after a two-hour meeting with representatives of the detainees. The detainees began their hunger strike on Friday to urge the government to abolish the Act.

"They (detainees) agreed to end the hunger strike and have started to eat and drink. Their health is also good," he told reporters at the prison on Sunday.

Earlier, he met with the detainees' family members who had gathered in front of the prison since 11am.

On Saturday (Aug 25) Deputy Home Minister Mohd Azis Jamman said he had instructed the Prisons Department to monitor the situation.

"I asked for ambulances and medical officers to be on standby. Prisons officers have also been told to assure the detainees and their family members that Sosma is being reviewed by the government," Datuk Mohd Azis said.

Several of their family members gathered outside the prison on Saturday to show their support for the detainees' cause.

Mr Mohd Azis said that Sosma was still being reviewed and a special committee was formed for the purpose.

"We cannot make hasty decisions as all views must be taken into account," he added. "These include the views of law enforcement agencies."

The special committee includes the Attorney-General's Chambers, Suhakam, the police and non-governmental organisations.

"When it has completed the review, the committee will hand its proposals to the Cabinet," said Mr Mohd Azis. "The final decision rests with the Prime Minister."

On July 22, Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said the government would repeal laws that were oppressive, namely Sosma.

Tun Dr Mahathir said the Act, which was introduced during the previous administration, allowed the government to arrest anyone arbitrarily.

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