Gerakan is working on a memorandum for a total review of the Internal Security Act (ISA) in order for the draconian law to be applied only to protect the interest and safety of the nation, said its Deputy President Datuk Chang Ko Youn.

He said the party’s Human Rights & Law Bureau was drafting the memorandum with the help of the legal profession and stakeholders, adding that the memorandum would be submitted to the Home Ministry and Cabinet for consideration.

“We advocate a replacement of the ISA with a new statute called ‘Anti Terrorism Act’ that would specifically deal with threats from terrorists,” Chang said in a statement today.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has pledged for a comprehensive review of the ISA when he took office on April 3 and would discuss the matter with Home Minister Datuk Hishammuddin Hussein soon.

Hishammuddin said Tuesday that national interest as well as striking balance between the rights of individuals and the rights of the majority would be the priorities when reviewing the ISA.

Chang said Gerakan would support an extensive overhaul of the ISA through the setting up of a Parliamentary Select Committee, particularly the part on restoring the power of the judicial review to the courts on ISA matters.

He also stressed that ISA should only be used to protect internal security and against terrorism, noting that a review of this law should be in tandem with these two aspects.

Chang, who is also special adviser to Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir on Chinese affairs, noted Gerakan was against the ISA in particular where the draconian law was used for detention without trial against political dissents.

He said Gerakan would also advocate a review of the Printing Presses and Publications Act, especially on the annual renewal of licenses.

“Whatever changes that will be made will not jeopardise national interest, safety and unity of this country at a time when the nation is facing many challenges,” added Chang.