ERC speaker denied entry into S'wak

KUCHING: Electoral Reform Committee (ERC) member Wong Chin Huat was stopped from entering Sarawak when he arrived at Kuching International Airport at 3.45pm on Thursday (Nov 14).

He was coming to speak at a workshop on electoral systems here on Friday (Nov 15), but was not allowed into the state.

The workshop is jointly organised by the ERC, Bersih 2.0 and non-governmental organisation Engage.

"I am denied entry to Sarawak despite (coming) here for the purpose of the federal government, a right under Section 68 of the Immigration Act," Wong wrote on Facebook.

He was initially scheduled to fly back to Kuala Lumpur at 8.50pm, but suffered a headache and high blood pressure while waiting in the airport's immigration office.

"I have requested to see a doctor since 7.15pm, and my request has been ignored. I do not think it is reasonable for me in this condition to board a 110-minute flight before receiving treatment.

"I am glad that I finally got hold of Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, the Health Minister, who is arranging a doctor to see me," Wong said on Facebook.

According to Bersih 2.0 vice-chair for Sarawak Ann Teo, a doctor arrived at 9.45pm to check on Wong.

She said the ERC wrote to the state government to inform them that Wong would be coming for the programme, but did not receive any reply.

"The ERC had consultations in Sarawak in August and he was able to come in then. This time, we don't know why he was denied entry. No reasons were given," she said.

She added that as a member of the ERC, Wong should be allowed into the state to carry out his duties.