Yearly Archives: 2024

KUALA LUMPUR (4 JULY 2024) – SUHAKAM Annual Report and Financial Statement for the year 2021 and 2022 have been tabled and debated on June 27 and 1 and 2 July 2024 in Dewan Rakyat during the Second Meeting of the Third Session of the Fifteenth Parliament (2024). SUHAKAM wishes to convey our utmost appreciation to YB Dato’ Sri Azalina Othman Said, the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) for her commitment and unwavering effort to strengthen the rule of law of which, under her leadership, SUHAKAM Act amendment has been passed and three Annual Reports (2020, 2021 and 2022) were successfully tabled and debated.

During the debate on the motion of the Annual Reports, a range of pertinent human rights issues were raised by 49 Members of Parliament (MP) among others, the delay on the appointment of SUHAKAM Chairman and the transparent procedure involving the Selection Committee for SUHAKAM Commissioners, racial discrimination, xenophobia, freedom of religion, prison reform, strengthening SUHAKAM and the Office of Children’s Commissioner (OCC) as accorded by the new SUHAKAM Act amendments , Orang Asli/Asal native customary land rights, citizenship, business and human rights as well as economic, cultural and social rights for vulnerable groups.

The debate has also witnessed responses from Ministries on a number of notable issues and the progress as follows:
i. Additional allocation to resolve water supply issues in Kelantan;
ii. Efforts to address issues involving Orang Asli/Asal;
iii. Prison reform which includes extension of the Custodial Health Unit (CHU);
iv. Economic and social protection for marginalised groups;
v. Awareness on mental health and right to access healthcare services;
vi. Cultivating unity towards the elimination of racial discrimination;
vii. Malaysian Media Council Bill to address various issues on media freedom;
viii. Strengthening legislation relating to Islamic religious affairs; and
ix. Government commitment to address humanitarian issues in Palestine.

Special gratitude to YB Tuan M. Kulasegaran A/L V. Murugeson, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) for winding up the debate and his continuous efforts in bringing forward human rights agenda for the common good. SUHAKAM believes that political commitment is important, not only to table the Annual Report but to also debate the human rights issues as this will serve as a platform to share views and concerns over critical human rights issues and most importantly, for the respective Government agencies to intensify their efforts towards the implementation of the proposed recommendations. Addressing human rights issues is always about ensuring equality and accountability, a change that will benefit Malaysia.

SUHAKAM Annual Report 2021 and 2022 consist of six and seven chapters respectively, that provide the details of activities carried out for the year 2021 and 2022 which includes strengthening SUHAKAM’s role and leadership on empowering human rights, business and human rights, advancing the economic, social and cultural rights for vulnerable groups, awareness on children’s rights, addressing statelessness, prison reform, international coordination, law reform, elimination of racial discrimination, combating racism and xenophobia and many other pertinent human rights issues in Malaysia.

To read more about issues reported in SUHAKAM Annual Report and Financial Statement for 2021 and 2022, please visit our website at www.suhakam.org.my.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
4 July 2024

PRESS STATEMENT

KUALA LUMPUR (13 JUNE 2024) — SUHAKAM is deeply concerned about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, which has been described as “beyond catastrophic” by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, during his recent visit to Malaysia. The United States (US) must move beyond rhetoric’s and ensure that Israel fully complies unconditionally with the recent United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2735 (2024) on 10 June 2024.

The US must not only exercise its veto to derail their recognition but also stop providing arms which are being used to kill the women and children in Gaza. A ceasefire must be followed by a comprehensive reconstruction plan to restore Gaza and make it liveable again. The international community, in collaboration with local authorities, must prioritize rebuilding homes, hospitals, schools, and infrastructure. Ensuring access to basic necessities such as clean water, food, and medical care is paramount.

SUHAKAM call for the safe and voluntary return of displaced Palestinians to their homes. Displacement has caused immense hardship and disrupted countless lives. Efforts must be made to facilitate their return and reintegration into their communities, providing them with the support needed to rebuild their lives.

SUHAKAM also urges on all parties involved to immediately cease hostilities and engage in constructive dialogue to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict. It is imperative that international humanitarian law is upheld and that all necessary measures are taken to protect the lives and rights of civilians. The ongoing conflict has resulted in severe human suffering, widespread destruction, and an urgent need for international intervention.

The escalating violence has led to a significant loss of lives, including many innocent civilians, and has exacerbated an already critical humanitarian crisis. The destruction of homes, hospitals, schools, and infrastructure has left countless individuals and families without access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, and medical care.

The ongoing occupation and discriminatory policies must end. An apartheid regime violates fundamental human rights and perpetuates inequality and injustice. The international community must take decisive action to dismantle these oppressive structures and ensure equal rights for all.

SUHAKAM fully supports Volker Türk’s call for accountability and the end of impunity in Gaza and the West Bank. We urge all parties involved to respect international humanitarian law and prioritize the protection of civilian lives. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the deteriorating situation in the West Bank demand immediate and coordinated action from the global community.

We urge the Malaysian government to continue its efforts in providing humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza and to work closely with international organizations and other nations to ensure the delivery of aid and support to those in need. Additionally, SUHAKAM encourages the global community to increase their efforts in addressing the root causes of the conflict and to support initiatives aimed at achieving a lasting peace in the region.

In such times, SUHAKAM stands in solidarity with the people of Gaza and reaffirms its commitment to promoting and protecting human rights for all. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and their families and call for urgent and coordinated action to alleviate the suffering of the affected population.

Finally, SUHAKAM urges the international community to hold Israel accountable for its genocidal actions, in line with the case initiated by South Africa at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). SUHAKAM also calls for the perpetrators to be held responsible for their inhuman transgressions and for the International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor to conduct just and fair investigations into the war crimes committed, without any interference.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

13 June 2024

PRESS STATEMENT

KUALA LUMPUR (9 JUNE 2024) – SUHAKAM is closely monitoring the recent actions taken by the Sabah state government concerning the Bajau Laut community in Semporna. Several homes have been demolished as part of the Sabah state government’s initiatives to enhance security and protect the environment within the Tun Sakaran Marine Park. While prior notice was given to the affected communities, SUHAKAM acknowledges the need to assess the broader humanitarian impact of these actions.

The Bajau Laut are a unique and historically marginalized community facing significant challenges, including limited access to basic services such as healthcare and education. While recognizing the state government’s intention to enhance security, SUHAKAM emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach that addresses the immediate needs of those affected by the demolitions.

SUHAKAM advocates for immediate assistance to be provided to the displaced members of the Bajau Laut community. This includes ensuring access to temporary housing, medical care, and educational resources to minimize the disruption to their lives.

We encourage ongoing dialogue and collaboration between the state government, the Bajau Laut community, and humanitarian organizations to develop sustainable and inclusive strategies that address broader issues while respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals involved.

SUHAKAM remains committed to monitoring the situation closely and working towards solutions that uphold human rights.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
9 June 2024

KUALA LUMPUR (31 MAY 2024) — SUHAKAM was represented by Commissioner Prof. Datuk Noor Aziah Mohd Awal during the recent 88th session of the CEDAW Committee hearing in Geneva on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women.

The Committee on CEDAW, a body of independent experts, monitors the implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. CEDAW, an international bill of rights for women, was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1979 and came into force in 1981. Malaysia ratified the Convention in 1995 and, as a signatory, is reviewed by the UN every four years.

SUHAKAM commends the Malaysian government for sending a high-level delegation headed by Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, YB Nancy Shukri, along with senior officers of the ministry. The presence of the Honourable Minister was noted by the Committee, which expressed their elation at such a high-level presence. The Committee took note of developments in areas of equal recognition through laws and proposed amendments to the Federal Constitution. Positive developments include the enactment of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022 [Act 840], amendments to the Employment (Amendment) Act 2022, and the introduction of anti-stalking laws in the Penal Code. However, the Government acknowledged ongoing challenges, notably the need for better representation of women in Parliament.

SUHAKAM attended and was allowed 5 minutes intervention at the Committee hearing and acknowledged the positive steps taken by Malaysia towards compliance with the Convention. During the formal discussions, the Committee raised several questions, including Malaysia’s reservations on Articles 9(2) and 16(1) (a), (c), (f), and (g) of CEDAW and the status of the ratification of the optional protocol of CEDAW. Other issues discussed included the harmonization of Syariah and civil laws, the effectiveness of the Domestic Violence Act, measures taken to reduce statelessness among women, the criminalization of out-of-wedlock pregnancy, proposed amendments to the Education Act, the introduction of indigenous languages as a medium of instruction in schools, unpaid care work, the impact of climate change, and the plight of women on death row. The Committee stressed that the Government should focus on policies and laws that will benefit all women, particularly those from the most marginalized communities.

Prior to the formal proceedings, on May 20th, SUHAKAM presented a detailed statement in an informal session with the Committee. Among the issues highlighted by SUHAKAM were citizenship issues, female genital mutilation, child marriage, and sexual harassment. SUHAKAM urges Malaysia to engage with all Malaysian stakeholders on a regular basis to identify areas of shortcomings and propose steps moving forward to address existing reservations.

SUHAKAM commends the commitment made by the Malaysian Government to the CEDAW reporting process and is hopeful that the Committee’s recommendations will act as a catalyst in further advancing women’s rights and the broader human rights agenda in Malaysia.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

31 May 2024

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Malaysia Dipuji atas Kemajuan Hak Wanita di CEDAW

KUALA LUMPUR (31 MEI 2024) —SUHAKAM telah diwakili oleh Pesuruhjaya Prof. Datuk Noor Aziah Mohd Awal pada sesi ke-88 pendengaran Jawatankuasa CEDAW di Geneva mengenai penghapusan diskriminasi terhadap wanita.

Jawatankuasa CEDAW adalah sebuah badan bebas yang memantau pelaksanaan Konvensyen mengenai penghapusan segala bentuk diskriminasi terhadap wanita. Triti undang-undang -undang antarabangsa untuk wanita ini telah diterima pakai oleh Perhimpunan Agung PBB pada tahun 1979 dan mula berkuat kuasa pada tahun 1981. Malaysia meratifikasi Konvensyen itu pada tahun 1995 dan sebagai Negara Pihak, prestasinya akan dinilai semula oleh PBB setiap empat tahun.

SUHAKAM memuji kerajaan Malaysia menghantar delegasi yang diketuai oleh Menteri Wanita, Keluarga dan Pembangunan Masyarakat, YB Nancy Shukri dengan diiringi oleh pegawai kanan Kementerian.  Jawatankuasa menzahirkan penghargaan mereka atas kehadiran Yang Berhormat Menteri dan mengambil maklum perkembangan  undang-undang dan cadangan pindaan kepada Perlembagaan Persekutuan yang dibentangkan, termasuk perkembangan positif iaitu penggubalan Akta Anti Gangguan Seksual 2022 [Akta 840], pindaan Akta Kerja (Pindaan) 2022, dan pengenalan Undang-Undang Menghendap (anti-stalking) dalam Kanun Keseksaan. Kerajaan mengakui akan cabaran yang berterusan, terutamanya keperluan untuk perwakilan wanita yang lebih baik di Parlimen.

SUHAKAM telah diberikan lima minit untuk menyampaikan kenyataan intervensi pada sesi pendengaran dan mengakui langkah-langkah positif yang diambil oleh Malaysia untuk pematuhan Konvensyen tersebut.  Semasa sesi perbincangan, Jawatankuasa mengajukan beberapa soalan, termasuk reservasi Malaysia pada Artikel 9(2) dan 16(1) (a), (c), (f), dan (g) CEDAW serta status pengesahan protokol pilihan CEDAW. Antara isu lain yang dibincangkan termasuk penyelarasan undang-undang Syariah dan sivil, keberkesanan Akta Keganasan Rumah Tangga, langkah-langkah yang diambil untuk mengurangkan tanpa kewarganegaraab dalam kalangan wanita, penyahjenayahan luar nikah yang dicadangkan kepada Akta Pendidikan, pengenalan Bahasa Orang Asal/Asli sebagai bahasa pengantar di sekolah, khidmat penjagaan yang tidak dibayar, kesan perubahan iklim, dan kebajikan banduan akhir wanita. Jawatankuasa menekankan bahawa Kerajaan harus memberi tumpuan kepada dasar dan undang-undang yang akan memberi manfaat kepada semua wanita, terutamanya mereka daripada golongan rentan.

Sebelum prosiding rasmi dijalankan, pada 20 Mei, SUHAKAM telah mengemukakan kenyataan terperinci dalam sesi tidak rasmi dengan Jawatankuasa. Antara isu yang diketengahkan oleh SUHAKAM adalah isu kewarganegaraan, khitan kanak-kanak perempuan, perkahwinan kanak-kanak, dan gangguan seksual. SUHAKAM menggesa Malaysia untuk melibatkan pihak berkepentingan secara berkala untuk mengenal pasti kekurangan dan mencadangkan langkah-langkah ke hadapan untuk mengatasi reservasi yang masih ada.

SUHAKAM memuji komitmen oleh Kerajaan Malaysia terhadap proses pelaporan CEDAW dan berharap cadangan Jawatankuasa ini akan bertindak sebagai pemangkin dalam memajukan lagi hak wanita dan agenda hak asasi manusia yang lebih meluas di Malaysia.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

31 Mei 2024

PRESS STATEMENT

KUALA LUMPUR (3 APRIL 2024) –The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Amendment Bill 2023 (SUHAKAM Bill 2023) was passed in the Senate (Dewan Negara) on 2 April 2024. This Bill aims to enhance the Commission’s function and independence in promoting and protecting human rights in Malaysia.

The amendments to the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 [Act 597] would strengthen SUHAKAM’s capacity to investigate and report on human rights abuses and this would align with Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) which focuses on peace, justice, and strong institutions. The presence of a full functioning Paris Principles-compliant National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) is an indicator of progress towards the realisation of the SDGs (SDG 16.1a). As an independent state body with a constitutional mandate to protect and promote human rights, SUHAKAM contributes significantly to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda.

The passing of the Bill will enable SUHAKAM to better function as an independent oversight body, monitoring Malaysia’s human rights situation in line with international standards. Enhancing SUHAKAM’s role and functions in upholding and advancing human rights in Malaysia will contribute to the development of a just and equitable society.

SUHAKAM would like to express our utmost appreciation to Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) YB Datuk Seri Azalina Binti Othman Said for her efforts in strengthening SUHAKAM’s role through institutional reform. We would also like to thank her deputy, YB Tuan M. Kulasegaran A/L V. Murugeson for presenting the SUHAKAM Bill 2023. SUHAKAM acknowledges the issues presented and debated by the 11 Senators and appreciates the support given to amending the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 [Act 597].

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

3 April 2024

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Pindaan Akta SUHAKAM Diluluskan di Dewan Negara

KENYATAAN MEDIA

KUALA LUMPUR (3 APRIL 2024) — Rang undang-undang Pindaan Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia 2023 (RUU SUHAKAM 2023) telah diluluskan di Dewan Negara pada 2 April 2024. Rang undang-undang ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan fungsi dan kebebasan Suruhanjaya dalam mempromosikan dan melindungi hak asasi manusia di Malaysia.

Pindaan kepada Akta Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia 1999 [Akta 597] akan mengukuhkan kapasiti SUHAKAM untuk menyiasat dan melaporkan pelanggaran hak asasi manusia , sejajar dengan Matlamat Pembangunan Mampan 16 (SDG 16) yang memberi tumpuan kepada keamanan, keadilan, dan institusi yang kukuh. Kewujudan Institusi Hak Asasi Manusia Kebangsaan (NHRI) berfungsi sepenuhnya dan mematuhi Prinsip-prinsip Paris merupakan tanda aras kemajuan ke arah merealisasikan SDG (SDG 16.1 a). Sebagai sebuah badan berkanun bebas dengan mandat Perlembagaan untuk melindungi dan mempromosikan hak asasi manusia, SUHAKAM dapat menyumbang secara signifikan kepada pencapaian Agenda 2030.

Pindaan ini adalah penting bagi SUHAKAM untuk berfungsi sebagai badan pengawasan bebas, dan dapat memantau keadaan hak asasi manusia Malaysia, mengikut piawaian antarabangsa. Pengukuhan peranan dan fungsi SUHAKAM dalam menegakkan dan memajukan hak asasi manusia juga akan dapat menyumbang ke arah pembangunan masyarakat yang adil dan saksama di Malaysia.

SUHAKAM ingin mengucapkan setinggi-tinggi penghargaan kepada YB Dato’ Sri Azalina Binti Othman Said, Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Undang-undang dan Reformasi Institusi) atas usaha beliau mengukuhkan peranan SUHAKAM melalui reformasi institusi. Kami juga ingin mengambil peluang untuk mengucapkan terima kasih kepada Timbalan Menteri, YB Tuan M. Kulasegaran A/L V. Murugeson atas pembentangan RUU SUHAKAM 2023 di Dewan Negara pada hari ini. SUHAKAM mengambil maklum mengenai isu-isu yang dibentang dan dibahaskan oleh 11 Senator dan menghargai sokongan yang telah diberikan terhadap pindaan Akta Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia 1999 (Akta 597) ini.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

3 April 2024