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The 2009 death of a political aide from Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s own Pakatan Harapan coalition, while in custody at the anti-graft agency, has raised hackles again. A vow to get to the bottom of the tragedy has yet to be fulfilled 16 years on, nearly three years since Datuk Seri Anwar took power.
A public show of remorse, with head bowing and offers of further compensation by government leaders, has only further infuriated the family of the late Mr Teoh Beng Hock.
Meantime, after weeks of disquiet over the leadership of its judiciary, Malaysia finally has a new chief justice, confirming a report by The Straits Times prior to the official announcement. He was a former deputy minister from PM Anwar’s key ally Umno.
Datuk Wan Ahmad Farid will jump directly from the Court of Appeal to the apex Federal Court and head the judiciary, an unprecedented move that was widely welcomed. Previously, there was widespread concern that Datuk Seri Anwar was fast tracking a less experienced candidate, who was a newly-appointed judge.
Still, political controversies continue to dog the Anwar administration, not least the wrangling between members of his multi-coalition government in a bid to gain the upper hand at upcoming state polls in Sabah. The election will likely see four separate factions lock horns amid a graft scandal related to mining licences.
Follow ST’s coverage as we continue to bring you the latest developments.
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Malaysia govt’s reform pledge tested as DAP chief bows over unresolved 2009 death of political aide
Mr Teoh Beng Hock’s death is emblematic of DAP’s and PH’s unfulfilled promise on resolving the case.
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‘Friendly contests’, shifting alliances in Sabah set to test Anwar’s unity government
Sabah will hold its election, expected by September, against a backdrop of discontent.
Appointment of Malaysia’s new chief justice eases controversy over vacant top judge seats for now
Wage strike by bus drivers ferrying passengers across Causeway causes morning disruption
Cross-border bus operator Causeway Link said the service disruption lasted for about 45 minutes.