The PKR member, who is also a human rights activist, said Putrajaya should, in this case, ignore Asean’s principle of non-interference to put economic pressure on the junta so that it would end the killings and release all political prisoners.
According to news reports, the crackdown in Myanmar has resulted in more than 500 deaths and scores of injuries.
Wong suggested that the government direct local companies, including banks, to end their relationships with members of the military junta and their associates.
“The international trade and industry ministry (Miti) and Bank Negara Malaysia can issue such directives and advisories,” he said.
But he cautioned against a blanket approach to economic punishment, saying it would do more harm than good.
“I do not think a blanket economic approach is fair. It would hurt the innocent people of Myanmar.
“It is important to apply targeted financial sanctions only against members and associates of the military junta.”
Recently, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin urged Myanmar’s military leaders to choose a path towards peaceful solutions.
“I am appalled by the persistent use of lethal violence against unarmed civilians, which has resulted in a high number of deaths and injuries and suffering across the nation,” Muhyiddin said.
“There is no question that the use of live ammunition against peaceful protests is unacceptable. This deplorable situation must stop immediately.”
Human rights specialist John Quinley of Fortify Rights agreed that targeted sanctions against military-owned enterprises and military officials would address impunity and put pressure on the junta.
However, he said it would be wrong for Malaysia to take a wait-and-see approach to the issue.
“Malaysia must act urgently,” Quinley said.
Wong and Quinley both suggested that Malaysia continue to provide support and humanitarian aid to Myanmar refugees – Rohingya, Chin, and Rakhine refugees who are already in Malaysia as well as those who have crossed into Thailand.
They also said Asean should play a more active role in holding the Myanmar military accountable for their atrocities.
“Asean must revamp itself and rebuild a more legalistic version based on universal democratic values,” Wong said.
Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) recently released a statement urging Petronas to completely withdraw its investments in Myanmar.
“Petronas has announced a temporary cessation of operations in the Yetagun gas field, but the company said it remains committed to its project and is taking all necessary measures to resume production as soon as possible,” PSM central committee member Choo Chon Kai said.
“This shows that Petronas is trying to do business as usual by ignoring the severe crisis the country has plunged into, with hundreds of people being killed since the coup staged by the military.”
Choo said the government should press Petronas to stop “funding the murderous acts of the junta” against the people of Myanmar.