The High Court of Malaysia has ordered the government to pay 31 million ringgit (over US$7 million) to the family of Pastor Raymond Koh, acknowledging official involvement in his abduction and disappearance eight years ago.
The court ruled that Pastor Koh was likely “disappeared” by state authorities who viewed him as a perceived threat to Islam. One judge confirmed that some of the individuals involved in the kidnapping were police officers, either serving or former, acting under government orders.
Pastor Koh, known for his Christian social work and outreach ministry, was abducted on 13 February 2017 by five masked men in a well-coordinated operation captured on video. Despite widespread attention and repeated appeals, his whereabouts remain unknown.
His wife, Susanna Koh, filed a civil suit accusing the government of complicity in the abduction and of mishandling the subsequent investigation. The court’s decision marks a significant acknowledgment of state responsibility.
“We are overjoyed and thankful to God that we have a fair and honest judgment,” Mrs Koh told reporters after the verdict. “Though this will not bring Pastor Raymond back, it offers a sense of vindication and closure for our family. We dedicate this struggle and judgment to Pastor Raymond Koh, a man of compassion and courage, and to all victims of enforced disappearances.”
At the time of his abduction, several Muslim groups had accused Pastor Koh of evangelising to Muslims through his community outreach work. His kidnapping occurred soon after these public allegations.
Since 2017, Susanna Koh and her children have continued to seek justice and truth about what happened to their husband and father, urging the government to reveal the full findings of the investigation and to hold those responsible accountable.
Adapted from ICC.
