After Ninoy Aquino's assassination, Malay became a staunch activist in the human-rights movement. He was founding chair of Kapatid, a support and advocacy group in behalf of political detainees all over the country.  He and his wife Paula were among the many opposition and cause-oriented leaders indefatigably marching in rallies and demonstrations. He also joined the council of leaders of the National Alliance for Justice, Freedom and Democracy. From 1990 to 1992 he was the vice‑chair of Selda, a national organization of former political detainees.