KUALA LUMPUR (17 JUNE 2026) – In conjunction with the celebration of Maal Hijrah 1448H, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) calls upon all Malaysians to reflect on the profound lessons of the Hijrah of Prophet Muhammad SAW, which symbolises resilience in the face of oppression, the pursuit of protection and safety, and the establishment of a society founded upon justice, peace and respect for human dignity.
The Hijrah reminds us that throughout human history, there have been people who were compelled to leave their homes due to conflict, persecution, insecurity or various forms of oppression. These lessons remain relevant today as the world continues to face humanitarian crises that force millions of people to seek protection and a safer life.
In the Malaysian context, discussions surrounding refugees, migration and vulnerable communities often give rise to diverse views and concerns within society. SUHAKAM recognises that national security, border management, public order and national sovereignty are matters of utmost importance that deserve due attention. The responsibility for managing and addressing these issues falls within the mandate of the Government and the relevant authorities entrusted with carrying out these duties in the interests of the nation and its people.
At the same time, concerns relating to security should not lead to the spread of hatred, hostility or treatment that undermines the dignity of any individual or community. Differences in views regarding policies and the management of such issues should be discussed in a mature and fact-based manner without compromising the values of humanity that form the foundation of a harmonious society. Challenges relating to migration and human displacement cannot be resolved through hostility or social exclusion. Rather, they require a comprehensive approach involving effective policies, appropriate enforcement measures and the cooperation of all relevant stakeholders. In this regard, the values of humanity and respect for human dignity must continue to be upheld alongside efforts to safeguard national security and public well-being.
SUHAKAM further notes that international refugee protection frameworks, including the 1951 Refugee Convention provides a structured approach to managing refugee situations while ensuring that individuals in need of protection are treated in accordance with fundamental humanitarian principles. In this regard, SUHAKAM takes this opportunity to reiterate its longstanding advocacy for Malaysia’s accession to the Convention. To date, 146 States are parties to the 1951 Convention including several ASEAN Member States namely Cambodia, Philippines and Timor-Leste. Pending the accession, it is important for Malaysia to establish a clear and comprehensive national policy framework on refugees and asylum seekers. Such a framework would help provide greater clarity in governance, strengthen coordination among relevant agencies, address public concerns more effectively, and promote a balanced approach that safeguards national interests while upholding human dignity and humanitarian values.
As the national human rights institution, SUHAKAM will continue to carry out its mandate to monitor, assess and speak out against any human rights violations occurring in Malaysia, regardless of a person’s nationality, ethnicity, religion or legal status. At the same time, SUHAKAM respects and supports the efforts of the Government and relevant authorities in ensuring that national security, public order and national sovereignty continue to be preserved.
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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
17 June 2026
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