[UPDATED] After not guilty plea, Heidy Quah gets back to work feeding refugees

KUALA LUMPUR – After pleading not guilty in court today, Refuge for the Refugees founder Heidy Quah said work goes on as her organisation strives to feed 700 to 1,000 families every weekend.

The government needs to stop clamping down on those speaking out, she told reporters outside the cybercrimes court in Jalan Duta here today.

“More people will start speaking out for what is right and true. They cannot hold it against us for speaking the truth. What is really encouraging is seeing more young people take a stand for what is right.

“I will definitely continue to speak out because it is important for people to know what is happening. At this point, we cannot afford to keep silent.”

Her lawyer, New Sin Yew, said it is ironic that the government is seeking a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council.

“Rather than spend their effort and time to address the real problem in (immigration) detention centres, authorities are choosing to persecute activists who are speaking the truth.”

Quah was charged today under Section 233(1) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 over a social media post she made last year concerning conditions faced by refugees in immigration depots.

She claimed trial and was handed a RM2,000 bail. She faces a fine of up to RM50,000 or jail term not exceeding one year, or both, if convicted.

Her next court date is set for September 6. – The Vibes, July 27, 2021