Imagine the agonizing uncertainty of not knowing if your loved one is alive or dead. For the families of Pastor Raymond Koh and Amri Che Mat, this nightmare has been their reality for years. Are they still alive? That single, haunting question hangs heavy in the air, unanswered by a government that their wives describe as stubbornly 'mute.'
This isn't some distant historical event; it's happening now. On December 6, 2025, the wives of these two men spoke out at a forum in Kuala Lumpur titled “Justice for the Disappeared: Understanding the Human Rights Impact of the Raymond Koh & Amri Che Mat Decisions,” sharing their ongoing pain and frustration.
Let's rewind a bit. Amri Che Mat, an activist, was abducted on November 24, 2016. His wife, Norhayati Mohd Ariffin, now 52, recounted receiving a phone call the next day, informing her that his car had been found, but Amri was gone. "Nine years have already passed," she said, her voice heavy with grief, "it is as if my children and I have just woken up.” She has four daughters who are also impacted by this ordeal.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the initial shock of the abduction. It's about the perpetual limbo. Norhayati passionately voiced a series of critical questions directed at the Malaysian government. "Where is Amri? Who caused him to disappear? And until when will those who are responsible still be free without justice?" she demanded. She further questioned who within the police force or government might have aided or turned a blind eye to this crime and when they would be held accountable. She also inquired about potential disciplinary actions against negligent police officers involved in the investigations.
But here's where it gets controversial... While enforced disappearances have been acknowledged, the government's silence on these specific questions raises serious concerns about transparency and accountability. Is this silence a deliberate attempt to conceal uncomfortable truths? What are your thoughts on this?
Pastor Raymond Koh's ordeal began on February 13, 2017. His wife, Susanna Liew, 69, testified about the enduring psychological scars the abduction has left on her and her family. They continue to suffer from symptoms of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, including debilitating fear and anxiety attacks. “As long as there is uncertainty as to where Raymond is or what happened to him, we cannot find closure. It is a terrible state to be in, as we simply cannot move on,” she explained.
Susanna poignantly described the unique agony of their situation: “In death there is a body, a funeral, you can say goodbye to them. But for us there is none, and it’s really difficult for the family. We cannot grieve, we don’t know whether he is dead or alive.” This lack of closure prevents the family from moving forward and finding peace.
Both Norhayati and Susanna emphasize that they will continue to relentlessly seek answers until the government provides a transparent and satisfactory explanation. Their unwavering determination highlights the profound human cost of these unresolved disappearances.
What do you think the Malaysian government should do to address these families' concerns? Should there be an independent investigation, and if so, what powers should it have? Could international pressure help to bring about a resolution? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below. Let's discuss this important issue and explore potential solutions.
