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The Malaysian Bar has published a document entitled the Red Book. It outlines the rights of the average Joe on the street when dealing with the police. I think this is in relation to the buzz that we’ve been seeing as of late in the media pertaining to local law enforcement and human rights, as well as the resulting confusion.

Like most Malaysians, I have often wondered about the rights of an individual. During everyday conversation, the question has been raised on numerous occasions by friends and family alike. To what extent do we have to obey the instructions of law enforcement officers? What extent are their authority over us as individuals? As a rule of thumb, I play it safe and have never had occasion to question my rights nor gotten into ‘big’ trouble with the authorities.

Downloads
Original document from the Malaysian Bar

As far as guidelines and information goes, this document does it intended job pretty well. It outlines a person’s rights under most circumstances. However, do remember that while you know your rights and wish to stand up for them, do not go about it in an overtly aggressive manner. By far the best solution to any given situation is to maintain a level head and reason with the other party. Under no circumstance should you provoke a police officer simply because you ‘know’ your rights. Do not assume that everyone is educated about your rights just because you are. And under no circumstance should you assume that you know the law simply because you have read the little red book.