The Legal Case
A constitutional argument, not just activism
The Applicants are arguing the Government’s inaction breaches 4 distinct legal grounds under the Malaysian Constitution & laws.
Article 5(1) – Right to life
The right to life encompasses the right to a safe, clean & sustainable environment
Article 8(1) – Right to equality
Deforestation’s consequences disproportionately burdens youths & future generations, resulting in intergenerational injustice
Legitimate Expectation – Broken promises
Consistent government representations since 1992 create a legitimate expectation that 50% forest cover will be maintained
Public Trust Doctrine – Government As Trustee
The Government has a duty to protect natural resources for the public & future generations, not private commercial interests