Memorandum to Attorney General’s Chambers of Malaysia (ACG) Urgent Request for Prosecution in Assault Case Involving Deaf Driver
Yang Berbahagia Datuk Peguam Negara,
We, the members of DAWN (Deaf Advocacy and Wellbeing National Organisation Malaysia), write to express our deep concern regarding the recent assault on a Deaf driver that has not yet led to prosecution. As advocates for the rights and welfare of the Deaf community in Malaysia, we are committed to ensuring that justice is served and that all individuals, regardless of their disabilities, receive equal protection under the law.
Deaf individuals do exist among the citizens of Malaysia. Are we still visible to you? Despite attending educational institutions, many members of the Deaf community remain uneducated, which hinders our ability to safeguard ourselves. Our rights, as a culturally and linguistically minority group, are frequently neglected, rendering us vulnerable.
The incident in question, which occurred on 29 May 2024 in front of the St Regis Hotel Kuala Lumpur, involved Ong Ing Keong, a Deaf driver who was assaulted. Despite clear evidence and witness testimonies, it has come to our attention that the case has not progressed towards prosecution. The police warned the victim not to share the video of the assault, which he complied with, yet justice has been delayed.
We demand justice. The Deaf community may lack legal knowledge, but we refuse to be exploited. We may be Deaf, but we are not silent. We deserve to live decently and not be forgotten.
We urge the Attorney General’s Chambers to take immediate and decisive action by prosecuting the perpetrators of this assault. By doing so, the AGC will reinforce its commitment to justice and equality, ensuring that the Deaf community feels safe and supported by the legal system.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. We look forward to your positive response and to working together to uphold the rights and dignity of all Malaysians.
