KUALA LUMPUR (11 JULY 2024) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) is pleased to announce that the amendments to the SUHAKAM Act has come into force yesterday (10 July 2024), marking a significant milestone in the strengthening of human rights protection in Malaysia. This momentous achievement underscores SUHAKAM’s unwavering commitment to upholding and advancing human rights for all in Malaysia.
The amendments to the SUHAKAM Act include eleven key provisions designed to enhance the effectiveness and scope of the Commission’s work. These amendments are as follows:
- Strengthening the functions of the Commission
- Enhancing the functions of the Office of the Children’s Commissioner under the governance of the Commission
- Appointment of Commission Members
- Appointment of a Chief Children’s Commissioner and two Children’s Commissioners
- Remuneration
- Code of Conduct
- Investigation Tribunal
- Payment of allowance to the Selection Committee
- Obligation of Authorities and Relevant Persons to Inform actions taken
- Powers related to Investigations
- Regulations
Additionally, the amendments to Section 4 empower SUHAKAM with new responsibilities and rights, including:
- The authority to visit any place of detention, institution, or other locations as prescribed by law and outlined in the guidelines related to these places;
- The ability to make recommendations to place of detention, institution and other place if necessary; and
- Ensuring that if the procedures prescribed by law or outlined in the guidelines related to these places are adhered to, visits by the Commission to any place of detention, institution, or other place, cannot be obstructed by the persons responsible for these places.
These amendments represent a comprehensive effort to fortify SUHAKAM’s role and operational capabilities. With these amendments, SUHAKAM is now better equipped to address a wide range of human rights issues, including but not limited to prison reform, racial discrimination, xenophobia, freedom of religion and the rights of vulnerable groups such as the Orang Asli / Asal and stateless individuals.
SUHAKAM extends its deepest appreciation to YB Dato’ Sri Azalina Othman Said, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) for her steadfast dedication and leadership in advancing the rule of law. Her commitment has been instrumental in the successful tabling and debate of three Annual Reports of 2020, 2021 and 2022.
Furthermore, SUHAKAM acknowledges the contributions of YB Tuan M. Kulasegaran, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) and his ongoing efforts to promote human rights in Malaysia.
The debates on the Annual Reports have highlighted a broad spectrum of human rights concerns, from economic and social protections for marginalized groups to mental health awareness and prison reform.
The amendments are a testament to SUHAKAM’s serious dedication to ensuring equality, accountability, and the continuous improvement of human rights standards in Malaysia. The Commission remains committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations and non-governmental organizations to implement vital recommendations and drive meaningful change.
For more detailed information on the SUHAKAM Annual Reports and Financial Statements for 2021 and 2022, please visit our website at http://www.suhakam.org.my.
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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
11 July 2024