Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: November 15, 2025
After nearly nine years, there is finally some hope for justice in the case of Pastor Raymond Koh.
Many of you will remember that Pastor Koh was abducted in a meticulous and professional operation on 13 February 2017, in broad daylight on a street in Malaysia. He hasn’t been seen or heard from since, leaving his family in unending uncertainty, anguish and grief.
His wife Susanna has never stopped pursuing the truth about what happened to her husband and who is responsible. Now, finally, the High Court in Kuala Lumpur has issued a verdict in a landmark case against the state.
On Wednesday 5 November the judge confirmed what the family has long believed: that Pastor Koh was forcibly disappeared, and that the police and the government were involved.
The family is set to be awarded 37 million Malaysian Ringgit, which is approximately £6.8 million (around £1,800 for each day the pastor has been missing, until his whereabouts are known). The landmark court ruling is the largest compensation in Malaysia involving enforced disappearance.
The judge also directed the investigations to recommence, and for the funds to be kept in a trust fund until Pastor Raymond’s whereabouts are established.
In an emotional speech outside the court, Susanna said:
‘Today marks a historic and emotional milestone for the Koh family, our legal team, civil society, and all Malaysians who have stood with us in pursuit of truth and justice.’
‘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 acutely 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 thankful for the manner in which the Malaysian court handled this sensitive case. The judge was very patient, careful and attentive to all the evidence that was given. […] We felt some vindication as we were able to tell our side of the story, and hear the responses by some of the police officers that were named as defendants.
‘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 closure for the family.
‘We dedicate this judgement to Pastor Raymond Koh, a man of faith, compassion and courage; and to all victims of enforced disappearance.
‘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. Thank you.’
Following the court ruling, on Monday 10 November the Home Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, said that his ministry was taking the court directive seriously and that the police will reopen investigations to determine the whereabouts of Pastor Koh.
Please join us in giving thanks with Susanna and her family for this answer to prayer. Let’s continue to pray for their comfort and strength, and that the truth will be fully known, and justice fully realised.