The Malaysian Bar expresses its deep concern over the reports surrounding the recent police shooting in Durian Tunggal, where three young men, M Puspanathan, 21, T Poovaneswaran, 24, and G Logeswaran, 29, were killed during a police operation. A purported audio recording of an unfinished telephone call1 has since circulated publicly. According to media reports, a forensic examination commissioned by the families’ lawyers suggests that the circumstances may differ significantly from the account initially provided by the authorities. Although the full facts remain unverified and the authenticity and context of the recording must be established by the relevant agencies, the seriousness of the allegations demands immediate and independent scrutiny.
When lives are lost at the hands of the state, the law requires nothing less than absolute transparency. Any incident involving the use of lethal force must be examined without delay and without influence. The existence of conflicting narratives in this case is troubling, and Malaysians are entitled to a clear and authoritative account. All evidence must be preserved, including any bodycam or dashcam recordings, firearm discharge reports, communication logs and forensic material. The loss, withholding or destruction of such evidence would be indefensible and would severely undermine public confidence in law enforcement.
Malaysia has witnessed too many cases where early explanations have later been contradicted under judicial scrutiny. These instances have contributed to a persistent trust deficit that cannot be ignored. Recalling these cases is not to prejudge the current matter, but to demonstrate why transparency is not a courtesy but a necessity. When the flow of information is incomplete or inconsistent, speculation grows, and faith in institutions weakens. The rule of law cannot function in such an environment.
The Malaysian Bar also emphasises that officers involved in the incident should be placed on administrative leave while investigations are carried out. Such a measure does not imply guilt. It reflects a policing system that understands the gravity of taking a life and the need to uphold public confidence at every stage.
Malaysia should ensure that its policing practices align fully with internationally recognised standards, including the United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials2. These principles make clear that lethal force must be a last resort, must be necessary and proportionate, and must be subject to independent review. These safeguards are meaningful only when they are embodied in practice, not merely in aspiration.
The families of the deceased deserve the truth, and the public deserves assurance that deaths involving state authority are not shrouded in uncertainty. A society that expects its citizens to trust law enforcement must demonstrate that it will hold every exercise of state power to the highest possible standard. Trust is not automatic. It is earned, and it is easily lost.
The Malaysian Bar urges the authorities to act with urgency, preserve all evidence, and ensure that an independent inquest is convened without delay. Only a transparent process anchored firmly in the rule of law can restore public confidence. The credibility of our institutions, and the safety and trust of the community, depend on it.
Mohamad Ezri b Abdul Wahab
President
Malaysian Bar
4 December 2025
1 “ ‘One…two…three, gunshots‘: Chilling audio clip of unfinished phone call during police op points to trio’s cold-blooded murder”, MalaysiaNow, 3 December 2025.
2 Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials.