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After nearly nine years of anguish and unanswered questions, the Malaysian High Court has delivered a historic verdict in the case of Pastor Raymond Koh — a Christian leader who was abducted in broad daylight in 2017 and has never been seen since. The court ruled that government agents were responsible for his disappearance and ordered the case to be reopened.

Who was Pastor Raymond Koh?

Pastor Koh led a church in Subang Jaya, Malaysia for over 13 years. He was known for his care and compassion for people.

A close friend of Raymond’s, Sri Ram, says,

“Having come from a poor family background, Raymond understood the needs of the poor and the neglected. Anything that he could imagine doing for the marginalised communities, Raymond would take it on.”

Such compassion led Raymond to start Harapan Komuniti (Hope Community), a charity that works with the underprivileged from all communities, irrespective of race and religion. These people include those with HIV/AIDS, recovering drug addicts, single mothers and their children, and homeless people.

His work reflected Christ’s love in practical ways, but it also drew scrutiny from Islamic authorities. In 2011, his organisation was accused of proselytising Muslims, which is illegal in several Malaysian states. Koh even received death threats and a box containing bullets at his home.

Despite these dangers, Pastor Koh continued his ministry faithfully.

The Day Everything Changed

On 13 February 2017, Raymond had planned to meet friends at their house. While driving there he was stopped by a large group of men in three black SUVs. The entire abduction was captured on CCTV. In less than a minute, the men lured him out of his car, forced him into one of their vehicles, and drove away. His car was never found. Pastor Raymond Koh disappeared that day — and has not been seen since.

Over the last several years, his wife, Susanna Koh, has tirelessly searched for her missing husband, speaking out boldly and keeping the case alive through national and international media attention. Despite her efforts, Raymond’s friends and family still do not know what happened to him.

Years of Silence and Struggle

Following the abduction, authorities interrogated Susanna about their ministry instead of focusing on finding Raymond. In 2019, Malaysia’s Human Rights Commission concluded that Koh’s disappearance was an “enforced disappearance” carried out by the police Special Branch. A government task force later confirmed similar findings, yet no action was taken.

In 2020, Susanna filed a civil lawsuit against the government and police officers, determined to seek justice despite overwhelming odds. Her perseverance — supported by prayer and advocacy from Christians worldwide — has now borne fruit.

The Court’s Decision

On 5 November 2025, Judge Su Tiang Joo ruled that the Malaysian government and police acted “oppressively and arbitrarily” in Koh’s abduction. The court ordered:

• RM10,000 (US $2,400) per day from the date of Koh’s disappearance until his whereabouts are revealed — currently totalling RM31 million (US $7.4 million).
• RM4.3 million (US $1 million) in additional damages and costs.
• Police must reopen the investigation and report progress to the Attorney General every two months.

Susanna called the ruling “an historic and emotional milestone”, saying:

“Though this will not bring Raymond back, it is a vindication and closure for our family. We dedicate this struggle and judgment to Pastor Raymond Koh, a man of faith, compassion, and courage — and to all victims of enforced disappearances.”

Why This Matters for Christians

Pastor Koh’s case highlights the cost of discipleship in regions where sharing the Gospel is dangerous. Reports suggest he was targeted because of outreach to ethnic Malay Muslims — a group constitutionally required to remain Muslim. His abduction underscores the reality of persecution and the need for prayerful support for believers in such contexts.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 5:10

How Can We Respond?

Give Thanks

Praise God for this breakthrough ruling. It affirms truth and justice after years of silence.

Pray

• For Susanna and her family — that God would comfort, guide, and protect them as they continue seeking answers.
• For the investigation — that it will uncover the truth and hold perpetrators accountable.
• For Malaysia’s authorities — that they will act with integrity and transparency.
• For the Church in Malaysia — that believers will stand firm and continue to share Christ’s love despite opposition.

To find out more about persecuted Christians and how you can help through advocacy and prayer, please visit Open Doors Australia.