Friday 3 April 2009

Najib releases 13 ISA detainees

In his maiden speech as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak announced the release of 13* Internal Security Act (ISA) detainees and the government's decision to remove the three-month ban imposed on Harakah and Suara Keadilan, the official organs of PAS and Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), respectively, last month.

Datuk Najib also pledged to conduct a comprehensive review of the ISA which has been regarded as controversial.

"These decisions are timely as we move to enhance the confidence of our citizens in those entrusted with maintaining peace, law and order, while recognising the need to remain vigilant of the very real security threats we continue to face as a young nation," he said in his address to the nation which was telecast live by RTM 1 and TV3.

Declaring the slogan of "One Malaysia. People First. Performance Now", Najib invited all the people of Malaysia to join him in the task of renewing Malaysia.

He also promised to remain focused in providing strong leadership to lead the people out of the current economic crisis which has hit the world, including Malaysia.

"I will be steadfast in my commitment to meet the needs, aspirations and concerns of all Malaysians," he said.

Najib was sworn in as the country's sixth prime minister this morning.

Full text of Najib's speech; here

* Following is the list of 13 Internal Security Act (ISA) detainees released immediately, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak tonight:

1. Pakana Selama

2. Amir Hussain

3. Sundaraj Vijay

4. San Khaing

5. R. Kenghadharan

6. V. Ganabatirau

7. Wan Amin Wan Hamat

8. A Artas A Burhanuddin

9. Francis Indanan

10. Mohd Nazri Dollah

11. Mohd Arasad Patangari

12. Idris Lanama

13. Binsali Omar


2 comments:

concerned rakyat said...

Well, its not a bad start, I mean releasing ISA detainees and promising to review the draconian law.

And I do hope he means what he says - no half measures.

There's the new cabinet line-up next week.

We shall see if he is going to drop the dead woods & the corrupt.

Will he retain Muhammad Mohd Taib and appoint some of the newly-elected Umno MT members said to be under investigation for alleged involvement in money politics?

We'll see if will keep to the promises made. We'll give a chance to prove himself.

Lee said...

Why only 13? Why not release all the ISA detainees!After all they should not be detained in the first place...the ISA being an obnoxious, archaic law which had outlived its relevance!The colonialists have left more than fifty years ago...and there are no longer any communists in Malaysia!If the PM is really sincere, he should release all the detainees.