Malaysian authorities have allowed five ethnic-Indian leaders, held under a draconian security law for spearheading protest against alleged marginalisation of the community, access to their families.

Deputy Internal Security Minister Fu Ah Kiow said the families would have to apply and inform the commandant of the Kamunting detention centre, 200 km from here, prior to their visit to meet the leaders lodged there. “As far as I am concerned, the fiveHindraf leaders will be treated like any other detainee. I am not too sure how often they can visit the detainees but they will definitely be given access,” he was quoted by Star newspaper as saying.