Sarawak bars Hindraf Chief Waythamoorthy
He was in Kuching to give advice on the legal issues and implications of the Sedition Act 1948.
(Free Malaysia Today) – Hindraf Makkal Sakthi Chief P. Waythamoorthy was denied entry Saturday morning at 11.15 am when he flew into Kuching to speak at a Public Talk on the Sedition Act from 2pm to 5pm.
The Public Talk, Sarawak, Sabah Sedition Act 1948 – Legal Issues and Implications, was organised by Concerned Sarawakians, an ad hoc NGO.
He was served with a Notice of Refusal of Entry which reads: This serves to inform you that pursuant to Section 65(1)(O) of the Immigration Act 1959/63, the State Authority has directed that no pass be issued to you to enter the State of Sarawak and such Pass is required under section 66 for you to enter the State”. http://www.agc.gov.my/Akta/Vol.%204/Act%20155.pdf
Waytha, who arrived by AirAsia Flight AK5204, was scheduled to depart for Kuala Lumpur his last port of call by the next available flight at 2pm.
“I am just a lawyer giving my Sarawakian clients legal advice,” said Waytha in commenting on his predicament. “They need legal advice as how to react in case the Government comes down hard on them. They are entitled to legal advice.”
He does not know whether he has been denied entry for this particular occasion or whether he has been permanently blacklisted by the immigration authorities in Sarawak.
Had he known earlier, he could have given his advice via Skype.
Besides Waytha, three other lawyers including one from Sabah were scheduled to speak at the Public Talk.
