MCA sets up independent observer group on exco's 'rape' case

MCA's government affairs monitoring committee (GMC) will set up an independent observer group to keep a close tab on the case involving Perak exco member Paul Yong, who has been accused of raping his Indonesian domestic worker.

“As rape is a criminal offence, this case has a direct impact on the international reputation of Malaysia and our judicial system, leaving no room save for absolute judicial impartiality,” said the party's publicity bureau in a statement this evening.

The objectives of the group, comprising GMC members, are:

• Provide check-and-balance, prioritise public opinion.
• Fortify the spirit that all are equal in the eyes of the law.
• Be the eyes of the people and the international community, ensure that the proceedings uphold the principles of independence, fairness and transparency.
• Provide legal, psychological and other aids needed to the parties involved.

The members of the group are lawyers Kevin Koo Seng Kiat, Chan Quin Er, Wong You Fong, Ng Kian Nam, Ryan Ho Kwok Xheng, Chong Eng Haw, doctors Dr Pamela Yong, Dr Khoo Kay Wai, Dr Cheng Wei Yee, licenced professional counsellors Lim Fang Jing, Low Guo Nan, Lim Hooi San and psychologist Dr Wong Kok Fye.

Whereas international relations would fall under the purview of Dr Tee Ching Seng and the group's spokesperson is Saw Yee Fung.

Other members include Ng Miow Hia, Lai Shin Yee, Lee Li Kuan from the Legal Advisory and Women's Aid Centre (LAWA), volunteer reserve police members Chua Hock Kuan, Hor Chee Siong, Ong Beng Huat, Perak MCA CRSM (crisis relief squad) chairperson Khor Chin Gee and Perak MCA public services and complaints bureau Chairperson Low Guo Nan.

On July 10, Yong denied raping the 23-year-old domestic worker, claiming to be both baffled and shocked by her allegation.

“I hereby unequivocally and categorically deny the allegation. I reiterate that I have never raped or sexually assaulted her,” said the Tronoh assemblyperson in a statement.

Police are investigating the case under Section 376 of the Penal Code for rape.

In her police report, the domestic worker claimed that the alleged rape took place at Yong's residence in Meru, Ipoh.