The Malaysian High Court has ruled that the government is responsible for the enforced disappearance of Christian pastor Raymond Koh in 2017.
The court found that serving and former police personnel were involved and had acted oppressively.
The government was held vicariously liable for negligence, false imprisonment, misfeasance in public office, conspiracy, breach of statutory duty, and violations of fundamental liberties.
Susanna Liew, wife of Pastor Raymond Koh, speaks to reporters after the Kuala Lumpur court ruled on her husband’s case, 5 November 2025 [Image credit: Sayuti Zainudin]
The court ordered more than RM37 million (£6.3 million; $7.5 million; €6.9 million) in compensation to Koh’s family. This includes general damages of RM10,000 per day since his disappearance, which now exceed RM31.8 million. It also includes RM6 million in exemplary and aggravated damages and RM250,000 in legal costs.
The sum is to be held in trust until his fate is confirmed. The judge criticised the authorities for suppressing evidence and misdirecting investigations and instructed that the case be reopened under new oversight, with regular reporting to the Attorney General.
Pastor Koh was abducted in broad daylight on 13 February 2017 in Petaling Jaya, Selangor. CCTV footage showed multiple vehicles and men in tactical gear surrounding his car. His wife, Susanna Liew, has led a sustained effort for truth and accountability.
A significant breakthrough came in August 2024, when the High Court ordered the release of a previously classified investigative report relevant to her civil suit.
A public inquiry in 2019 by Malaysia’s human rights commission (Suhakam) concluded that Koh’s disappearance amounted to an enforced disappearance carried out by state agents. However, a later special task force suggested instead that “rogue” officers acted independently, creating ongoing controversy and concern for religious freedom and minority rights.
Pastor Koh founded Harapan Komuniti, a Christian NGO supporting marginalised communities, including people living with HIV, former drug users, and the homeless, work that often crossed ethnic and religious boundaries.
In November 2024, Susanna Liew renewed calls for an independent investigation and a Royal Commission of Inquiry, expressing concern at the continued lack of resolution after more than seven years.
The Attorney General’s Chambers has now announced plans to appeal the High Court’s rulings in the cases of both Pastor Koh and activist Amri Che Mat, despite the court’s direction that investigations be reopened.
How you can pray
Please pray that Pastor Koh’s fate will be revealed and that his family receives truth, justice and peace. Pray that Malaysian authorities act transparently, uphold the rule of law, and ensure accountability. Intercede for the protection and freedom of the Christian community in Malaysia, especially those involved in outreach and service.
