LETTER | Pergerakan Tenaga Akademik Malaysia (Gerak or Malaysian Academic Movement) expresses our solidarity with the Hong Kong Professional Teachers’ Union and Hong Kong pro-democracy defenders, particularly concerning the safety and security of the street protesters who courageously fight for democracy in Hong Kong.

The unique struggles of Hong Kong pro-democracy defenders demonstrate to the world that “one country, two systems” format is an alternative format of democracy, which is a process in constant evolution.

Recognising that Hong Kong is also part of China, we believe that under a “one country, two systems” formula, Hong Kong people should be allowed to express their political concern for an independent judiciary in Hong Kong.

Gerak upholds not only academic freedom but also democracy and human rights. In the face of escalated violence in Hong Kong, it is imperative for us to stand in solidarity with democracy defenders in Hong Kong in support of the values of dignity, democracy and social justice.

Gerak is also strongly concerned that the recent attacks on civilians in Yuen Long must not be used as a pretext for what could be a catastrophic crackdown on the protesters later.

Reaffirming our solidarity with the Hong Kong democracy defenders, we condemn all forms of violence. Gerak urges the government of Hong Kong to respect the demand of its citizens to withdraw the extradition bill and drop all charges against the pro-democracy demonstrators.

Gerak also urges the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government to set up an independent inquiry to investigate the excessive use of force by the police and the alleged failure of police to protect the citizens during the organised attacks.

This Letter is sent by the Executive Council of the Malaysian Academic Movement (Gerak).

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.