After almost nine years without her husband, and almost six of those involved in an extensive court case, Susanna Koh has finally won her lawsuit.
In February of 2017, CCTV captured footage of Raymond Koh, a pastor in Malaysia, being abducted in broad daylight.
Three years after the fact, Raymond’s wife Susanna launched a court case against the Malaysian government, whom she believed was behind Raymond’s disappearance.
For over five years, Susanna, her family, and their legal team have been bringing evidence to the court that Raymond was abducted by the Malaysian government because of his church-related activities. They have been fighting for justice for him, as well as for all “victims of forced disappearance.”
On November, 5, the Kuala Lumpur High Court ruled in Susanna’s favour.
The court ordered the government to pay RM10,000 per day to Pastor Raymond, starting from February 13, 2017 (the day he was abducted) until he is found.
The amount has now reached RM31 million and continues to grow.
In addition, the Court awarded RM3 million to Susanna Koh, and RM250,000 in compensation for the delays and repeated postponements of the case.
Susanna issued the following statement:
“Today marks an historic and emotional milestone for the Koh family, our legal team civil society and all Malaysians who have stood with us in the pursuit of truth and justice.
“The high court has delivered the judgement on what we have long believed, that Pastor Raymond Koh was a victim of a grave injustice. After nearly 9 years of a loss of a husband and father anguish and uncertainty the judgement brings a long awaited decision.
“Thank God for well meaning citizens who came alongside in pursuit of truth and told us to use the legal means to secure the release of Pastor Raymond Koh.
“We filed an action in the High Court and prayed to God that justice and the truth will prevail somehow despite the overwhelming odds and circumstances. We were accurately aware of the risks to our family and our lawyers who are conducting this case but believe in God’s protection and the prayers from all the people who believe in our cause.
“We are overjoyed and thankful to god that we have an honest and fair judgement after all the evidence that could possibly be brought to the attention of the judge. Though this will not bring Pastor Raymond back it is somewhat a vindication and a closure for the family of Pastor Raymond Koh. We dedicate this struggle and judgement to Pastor Raymond Koh, a man of faith, compassion and courage and to all victims of enforced disappearance.
“To the media and friends who stood by us, we are forever grateful for your support. Last but not least we thank all Malaysians, human rights defenders and international supporters who have stood with us. Your solidarity sustained us through the darkest of times.
“May God bless Malaysia.”
