Lim: Pornthip's claim 'reflect lack of confidence in our security forces'

GEORGE TOWN: Both Gerakan and DAP on Monday, April 12 have called on the federal government to ensure that renowned Thai forensic pathologist Dr Pornthip Rojanasunand testifies during the Teoh Beng Hock inquest.

Both parties shared the view that the failure of Pornthip to testify will not augur well for the government and would be remembered for a long time.

Penang Chief Minister and DAP Secretary-General Lim Guan Eng, who expressed his regret that Pornthip has been "politically pressured" from testifying, said the government owes the public a full explanation if it cannot ensure the security and safety of Pornthip in the country.

"It is not only sad for Malaysia but does not speak well for the police or attorney-general's department.

"I hope the Malaysian government makes strenuous efforts to ensure her of her safety and security and try to convince her to come to Malaysia to testify at the inquest.

"If they fail to convince her it will be remembered for a long time and reflect the lack of confidence in our security forces," Lim said at a press conference.

He also urged the government to carry out investigations on who was responsible for exerting pressure or interfering with Pornthip's testimony.

Meanwhile, Penang Gerakan also expressed its concern over a news report that Pornthip was pressured and discouraged from testifying at the Teoh inquest.

Dr Thor Teong Gee, the secretary of the publicity, information and communication bureau, in a press statement on Monday said the inquest had drawn great attention from the local, as well as the world.

He reiterated that in order for the government to reform the justice system, as well as restore the credibility of the Malaysian Royal Police and Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), the government needs to ensure the inquest is carried out in a fair manner.

Dr Thor added the government should give an assurance to Pornthip that her safety would be well taken care of by the authorities.

"The government needs to investigate whether there was such a threat. Action should be taken against the wrongdoers.

"In my opinion, the inquest without the testimonials from Dr Pornthip may severely affect public confidence on the decision made by the Coroner’s Court.

"Justice should not only be done but seen to be done," he added.