On May 15 online news site Malaysiakini.com reported that the Ministry's officers confiscated 10 copies of the book, titled "May 13" from a major bookstore in Klang Valley. The bookstore was also reported to have  been advised by ministry officers not to sell the book.

When contacted by CIJ, the ministry confirmed that the books were seized but declined to elaborate whether it will be banned. The official said that the ministry is in the process of studying the book.

Academic and former opposition politician Dr Kua Kia Soong wrote the book which he says is based on declassified documents at the London's Public Records Office. It refutes the official explanation of the riots which attributed the violence to provocation by the opposition party and claims, instead that it was a planned coup to topple the then Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman from power.

Elizabeth Wong, spokes person for the publisher, Suara Komunikasi, claims that the books were illegally seized.

The ministry's attempt to prevent access to the publication is part of a consistent pattern to curb alternative interpretations of history. It reflects intolerance and discourages open discussion.

We call upon the government to respect the people's right to know. Forced imposition of the official view is against the Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's promise of transparency and integrity, and is unlikely to contribute to the intellectual growth of the nation. We call on the Government to review all laws suppressing freedom of speech, expression and information through setting up a select committee on communication rights.

The Centre for Independent Journalism, Malaysia (CIJ) aspires for a society that is democratic, just and free where all people will enjoy free media and the freedom to express, seek, and impart information.

Ends

Issued by
Sonia Randhawa
Executive Director

For more information please contact Wai Fong at 03 4023 0772