Repeal ISA and replace it with Anti-Terrorism Act.

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the Central Government repeal the Internal Security Act (ISA), to be replaced by Anti-Terrorism Act.

Builidng new block with new cells in Kamunting and coninuing to detain people under ISA cannot be considered reasonable.

On 9.8.2010, Dr Tan comments on media report of the Central Government spending RM7 million to build a new block at the 93.3 hectare Kamunting Detention Centre.

From 1987 to 1988, we were detained under ISA, staying at the old building in Kamunting. Now, media show that the Federal Government has spent RM7 million to rebuild the old block into two-storeyed structure with 20 cells, each accommodating three detainees.

At present, there are 274 detainees, of whom 12 are under ISA.

The authority abused ISA to detain us for rehabilitation--discipline, character and skills. None was applicable. after our release in 1988, we have continued with constitutional political struggle.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishamuddin repeatedly talks about amendments to the ISA. But, ISA was promulgated in 1960 against communists. In December, 1989, Malayan Communist Party laid down arms. Hence, the Central Government must repeal ISA, to be replaced by Anti-Terrorism Act.

A stable society does not allow any form of extremism including terrorism such as suicide-bombing.We need Anti-Terrorism Act to deal with extremists.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw