Malaysia passes controversial anti-terror bill
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Today the Malaysian parliament passed legislation that advocates say will combat terrorism but human rights groups and other opponents criticize for allowing detention without trial.
The Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) allows a suspect to be detained for up to two years, which can be extended indefinitely without guarantee of legal representation. The act also takes away judicial review for anyone detained under the law.
The government argues the detention power is necessary to combat the rising threat of terrorism, such as by Islamic State. Human Rights Watch Deputy Director for the Asia Division has quoted this as giant step backwards for human rights in Malaysia. He joins us now online...
The Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) allows a suspect to be detained for up to two years, which can be extended indefinitely without guarantee of legal representation. The act also takes away judicial review for anyone detained under the law.
The government argues the detention power is necessary to combat the rising threat of terrorism, such as by Islamic State. Human Rights Watch Deputy Director for the Asia Division has quoted this as giant step backwards for human rights in Malaysia. He joins us now online...
