KUALA LUMPUR, March 6 — The government’s decision to review the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) has been lauded as a positive step towards aligning national security laws with universal human rights principles. Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh emphasized the urgency of amending specific provisions, particularly sections 13 and 30, which severely limit judicial discretion in granting bail.
Section 13 restricts bail eligibility to minors, women, and the infirm, while Section 30 entirely removes judicial power to grant bail even for acquitted individuals pending appeal by the prosecution. These provisions, deemed unconstitutional and draconian, have contributed to overcrowding in prisons, with data from 2019 to 2023 revealing that 63% of detainees pleaded guilty to expedite their cases rather than endure prolonged trials.
Ramkarpal urged the government to immediately amend these sections, noting that stakeholder engagements have already taken place, and the necessary legislative drafting is the next step. He also called for a broader review of SOSMA, including Section 4, which allows detention without trial for up to 28 days.
Stressing the urgency of these reforms, he highlighted that delays in addressing these issues undermine judicial independence and lead to unnecessary incarceration. He urged swift government action to ensure that the law upholds fundamental rights while maintaining national security.
