Post by : Rameen Ariff

KLANG, MALAYSIA — Tensions escalated in Klang today as nine individuals, including leaders from Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) and two activists, were arrested for protesting against the demolition of homes at Kampung Jalan Papan.

According to Suaram representative Jernell Tan, those detained comprised six PSM leaders, two activists, and one village resident. The arrests come amid growing outrage over the forced evictions and demolition of houses still occupied by families.

Among those arrested were PSM secretary-general M Sivaranjani, treasurer Soh Sook Hwa, and party members Aein Aneera Anuar, K Ramasamy, Tan Ka Wei, and P Hridhay. Activists Wong Kueng Hui from Mandiri and Fakrurrazzi Khairur Rijal from Himpunan Advokasi Rakyat Malaysia* were also detained, alongside resident Tang Bing Ai.

PSM deputy chief S Arutchelvan, who was arrested earlier with two others, remains in police custody for one more day. The trio faces charges under Section 186 of the Penal Code for allegedly obstructing civil servants from carrying out their duties.

Arutchelvan, however, defended the group’s actions, stating they were only attempting to stop the demolition of homes still housing families. “We only asked for a short delay because people were still inside their houses when demolition began,” he said, adding that one activist was detained merely for requesting a two-day postponement.

The Selangor state government had earlier assured that only vacant houses and business premises would be demolished as part of a redevelopment project. But on October 27, residents received a fresh notice ordering them to vacate, sparking renewed protests.

Former Klang MP Charles Santiago joined PSM in urging the state to suspend demolition efforts and prioritize the welfare of the affected families. The groups have appealed to Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari to intervene and prevent the displacement of over 100 families.

As police continue to hold the detainees, civil rights groups and community leaders have called for their immediate release, emphasizing that the protesters were exercising their right to peaceful assembly.

The situation in Kampung Jalan Papan remains tense as demolition work continues, with residents and activists demanding fair compensation and resettlement before further demolitions proceed.

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