“We at Tenaganita are so proud to continue Irene’s remarkable work through the foundation she has laid within us, the foundation of love, truth and justice without compromising the human rights of anyone,” said the group’s executive director Glorene Das in a statement to pay tribute to the prominent human rights activist.

“In fact, she has set a clear direction for us at Tenaganita with a vision for a just, free, democratic and sustainable society , where all persons are equal with dignity and rights,” she said.

Irene died of heart failure on Mar 31, 2014 at the age of 68.

Tenaganita, which she co-founded, promotes the rights of migrant workers and refugees in Malaysia.

Irene was best known for a damning report she released in 1995, accusing the Malaysian government of torture and neglect in detention camps for undocumented foreigners.

She was subsequently arrested and charged with publishing false news, culminating in a 13-year court process which ended with her being acquitted in 2008.

Glorene said Irene would always be remembered as someone who showed strength “in the face of seemingly impossible struggles”.

“As such, we bring her into our memory today, we celebrate her life of selfless giving, her joy in empowering others, her passion for truth and justice, and we rejoice in her commitment towards the people.

“We salute her courage, dedication and unwavering integrity, and sincerely thank her for the significant legacy she has left behind,” she said.