We have to protect our doctors

30th July 2008

We read with interest the recent medical report published online that is likely to shed new light onto the high profile case of sodomy involving a well-known political figure. This has also been widely commented upon in mainstream newspapers. As medical practitioners we urge the relevant authorities to treat this medical report with objectivity in the course of their investigation.

We are also aware that the accuser underwent a second medical examination at HKL. We feel it is imperative that both medical reports form the basis of forensic evidence and be given due weight should this case end up in a trial, unless of course the reputation and credibility of the doctors are in question. This is in light of the previous sodomy charges involving the same political figure 10 years ago where certain medical reports were not allowed to be tendered as evidence when it was in favour of the accused.

We believe that any doctor who has carried out his duty professionally must not be subjected to any form of harassment or intimidation. In view of the fact that this is a very high profile case which may potentially further erode the already blemished reputation of Malaysia’s justice system internationally, the focus of the investigation should be on the veracity of the contents of the said reports and not on the controversy of patient-doctor confidentiality.

We urge the police and the AG’s chamber to either charge the accused according to the rule of law without any undue delay or exonerate him from any charges with immediate effect since justice delayed is justice denied.

Dr Sheik Johari Bux
Dr Farouk Musa
Dr Jeffrey Abu Hassan
Dr Musa Nordin