31 Aug 2017 will mark 200 days since Pastor Raymond Koh was abducted by persons unknown. The Synod of the Diocese of West Malaysia, in its biennial meeting in Klang from 21-23 August 2017, expressed its continuing concern at the lack of positive developments in locating the whereabouts of Pastor Koh.

So many questions remain unanswered despite the passage of almost 200 days: who abducted him, why was he taken, and, most importantly, what has happened to him.

As we observe this unfortunate anniversary, we continue to uphold Pastor Koh in our thoughts and prayers, asking for God’s protection to continue to be over him, wherever he may be. We also pray for his wife Susanna, and his children Jonathan, Esther and Elizabeth, asking for God’s comfort to remain with them in these dark days.

We pray for those involved in the investigations and search for Pastor Koh. We ask for God to guide them in the discharge of their duties diligently and professionally, and to lead them to his discovery and safe return.

We pray for those who have abducted him, that they will treat Pastor Koh with dignity and decency. And that God will move their hearts to return him to the bosom of his family.

We also pray for the continued safety of three others who have been taken away, and whose whereabouts are not known: Amri Che Mat, and Joshua Hilmy and his wife Ruth. We pray for God’s protection to be over them as well, and to give their families and friends comfort and consolation at this traumatic time.

We call on all peace-loving Malaysians to remember Koh, Amri, Joshua and Ruth in their thoughts and prayers, and as we commemorate the 60th anniversary of Merdeka on 31 Aug 2017, that their own “Merdeka” or freedom from captivity will follow soon.

Synod of the Diocese of West Malaysia