Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)is an independent organisation which investigates complaints for the violation of human rights. Human rights is the fundamental rights of each person, regardless of heritage, race, skin color, religion, political views, believes or where we live.
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA (17 OCTOBER 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) on 16 October 2025 co-hosted a crucial forum titled “Strengthening Regional Accountability: ASEAN’s Failure on Women, Youth, Peace and Security in Myanmar” at the IDEAS Kuala Lumpur Hotel. Jointly organised with Progressive Voice and the Alternative ASEAN Network on Burma (ALTSEAN-Burma), the forum served as an important platform to address the escalating human rights and humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, and to underscore the urgent need for stronger regional accountability mechanisms.
SUHAKAM stands in firm solidarity with the people of Myanmar, particularly women and youth who continue to face compounded risks and systematic violence since the illegal attempted coup in 2021. The forum amplified the voices of human rights defenders who shared first-hand testimonies of the dire situation on the ground, including the widespread use of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) and other grave human rights violations.
SUHAKAM Chairman, YBhg. Dato’ Seri Mohd Hishamudin Yunus, officiated the forum and drew attention to the severe scale of the humanitarian and human rights catastrophe in Myanmar. Current data indicates that the crisis has displaced more than 3.5 million people internally and resulted in over 6,000 civilian deaths since 2021. The discussions underscored the urgent need to end decades-long impunity for atrocities committed by the military, which disproportionately target women, girls, and youth from ethnic and religious minorities through systematic violence, including CRSV.
The forum also featured a panel on Women and Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and youth representatives who shared their lived experiences of the ongoing crisis and critically assessed the implementation of the ASEAN Regional Plan of Action on Women, Peace and Security (RPA WPS). The discussions further drew attention to CEDAW and Beijing+30 obligations on gender-based violence, which all neighbouring countries in ASEAN are a party to. Despite the framework’s pledge to uphold the core pillars of protection, participation, prevention, and relief and recovery, the situation in Myanmar starkly reveals ASEAN’s failure to deliver on these commitments.
SUHAKAM expressed deep concern over ASEAN’s continued inaction and silence regarding the specific needs and voices of Myanmar’s women, girls, and youth. Their exclusion from consultations and decision-making processes further entrenches marginalisation and undermines the practical relevance of the RPA WPS in addressing one of the region’s most urgent gender and human rights crises. The women of Myanmar — who have been at the forefront of the people’s revolution and resistance — must have their leadership and experiences recognised and centred in all peace and security efforts, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325).
Following the testimonies and panel discussions, SUHAKAM expressed its support for the delegation’s call for stronger Malaysian support to Myanmar’s women and youth, particularly in their humanitarian missions and steadfast efforts to end military tyranny, impunity, and gender-based violence.
SUHAKAM urges the Malaysian Government, Parliamentarians, diplomatic missions, media, and all stakeholders to take concrete action, including:
SUHAKAM reaffirms its commitment to leveraging its platform as a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) to advocate for human rights, justice, and accountability for the people of Myanmar at both regional and international levels.
SUHAKAM also calls for stronger regional accountability and courageous leadership within ASEAN to act now. ASEAN must not fail the ASEAN community, especially the women and youth of Myanmar.
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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 17 October 2025
KUALA LUMPUR (16 October 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its deep concern over the recent reports of violence, bullying, sexual assault, and gender-based killings involving girls in Malaysia, including cases in Sabah, Melaka, Selangor, and Kedah.
These incidents, including gang rapes and fatal acts of violence that amount to femicide, expose a grave reality: children, particularly girls, continue to be failed by the very protection systems and social structures meant to keep them safe. Schools, communities, and even online spaces that should nurture learning, trust, and growth are increasingly becoming sites of fear, victimisation, and harm. This situation is not only a national tragedy but a serious violation of children’s rights, dignity, and equality.
Malaysia’s commitments under the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and Article 8(2) of the Federal Constitution, which prohibits gender discrimination, must translate into real and effective protection on the ground. Yet, persistent gaps in enforcement, coordination, and societal awareness continue to leave girls vulnerable to gender-based violence, sexual exploitation, and public humiliation, both offline and online.
SUHAKAM therefore calls for:
Malaysia’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5 (Gender Equality) and Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), requires urgent and coordinated action to ensure that girls and all children live free from violence, discrimination, and exploitation.
As the world recently observed the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11, Malaysia must move beyond commemoration and take decisive action to safeguard its girls, not only from physical and sexual violence, but also from the indignity of public exposure, online shaming, and the escalating threat of femicide. Protecting children’s rights means protecting their identities, safety, and dignity, both offline and online. Every girl has the right to live free from gender-based violence, including femicide, and to grow in environments that uphold her equality, autonomy, and respect.
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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 16 October 2025
KUALA LUMPUR (10 October 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) joins the global community in commemorating the World Day Against the Death Penalty, observed annually on 10 October, to reaffirm the universal call for the protection of the right to life and the abolition of capital punishment.
This year’s observance, however, carries a profound sense of sorrow as two Malaysian citizens were recently executed by hanging in Singapore following their convictions for drug-related offences. Before the recent execution, SUHAKAM had written to the High Commissioner of Singapore in Malaysia, appealing for a postponement and reconsideration of the sentence, in line with the international appeal for restraint, mercy, and respect for the sanctity of life.
The global movement towards abolition continues to gain strength, with more than two-thirds of countries worldwide having abolished the death penalty in law or ceased its use in practice. Malaysia’s own progress, including the abolition of the mandatory death penalty and the ongoing reforms to review capital punishment policies, reflects a significant and commendable step forward. However, the path towards full abolition remains incomplete.
The enduring question remains whether the world can one day be free from the death penalty. SUHAKAM firmly believes that this is possible, but it requires more than political will. It calls for moral courage, public education, and a justice system grounded in humanity and fairness. True justice cannot be achieved through punishment that extinguishes life, but it must be built on principles of proportionality, rehabilitation, and respect for human dignity.
SUHAKAM reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the total abolition of the death penalty, in line with international human rights norms and the right to life guaranteed under the Federal Constitution. The Commission reiterates that a justice system that is humane and rights-based is the only system that can truly deliver lasting justice.
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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 10 October 2025
By: Paremeswari Subramaniam
(Principal Assistant Secretary Policy Division)
SUHAKAM
As the world commemorates the 2025 International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples on 9 August, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) joins the global community in reaffirming our commitment to protect the rights, dignity and heritage of Indigenous communities in Malaysia. This year’s theme, “Indigenous Peoples and AI: Defending Rights, Shaping Future”, reminds us that while technology holds promise, it must not deepen existing inequalities.
Land – The Soul of Indigenous Identity
For Malaysia’s Indigenous Peoples, the Orang Asli in Peninsular Malaysia and the native of Sabah and Sarawak, land is not merely a resource. It is the life of their culture, identity and survival. Yet, in 2025, land dispossession continues to uproot communities and erode centuries of heritage.
Despite legal protection in our Constitution, statutory provisions, and Malaysia’s endorsement of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), Indigenous communities continue to struggle for the recognition and protection of their customary territories. Article 26 of UNDRIP affirms that Indigenous Peoples have the right to the lands, territories, and resources which they have traditionally owned, occupied or otherwise used or acquired. Article 27 further obligates states to establish impartial and transparent mechanisms for recognition and adjudication of Indigenous land claims, consistent with their customs, traditions and land tenure systems.
Yet, implementation remains sorely lacking.
The 2013 National Inquiry into the Land Rights of Indigenous Peoples, conducted by SUHAKAM, laid bare these injustices. Over 6,500 Indigenous individuals gave testimony through public consultations across 23 districts, 892 recorded statements and 57 submissions from indigenous organisation, government agencies, and civil society groups. The Inquiry gathered issues revolving land encroachments, forced evictions, and a troubling absence of free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) in development affecting their lands. Eleven years on, the root problems persist.
Without secure land, Indigenous communities lose access to forests, rivers, food, and spiritual spaces. The impacts extend beyond physical displacement, causing cultural loss, food insecurity, and disempowerment.
Among the Inquiry’s 18 recommendations were recognition of customary rights to land, establishing grievance mechanisms, mandating FPIC, and creating an independent National Commission on Indigenous Peoples.
As of today, much of the report’s spirit remains unfulfilled.
Legal and Policy Gaps Still Persist
Malaysia’s legal framework, including the Aboriginal Peoples Act 1954 and the land codes in Sabah and Sarawak, do not adequately recognise Indigenous native customary land rights (NCR). Key concept such as pemakai menoa, pulau galau and kawasan rayau, remain unrecognised and uncodified in law. Despite favourable court decisions like Nor Nyawai[1], Sagong Tasi[2] and Adong Kuwau[3], affirming recognition of NCR, the failure to integrate these rulings into administrative procedures has perpetuated legal uncertainty.
Weak Institutions, Weaker Protection
Institutions tasked with safeguarding Indigenous welfare, notably the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) is underfunded, lack of transparency, and poor coordination between federal and state authorities. Indigenous land claims are frequently delayed, mishandled, or ignored altogether.
Ignoring Consent, Ignoring Rights
One of the most significant findings of the inquiry was the widespread violation of the right to Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC). Development projects, from plantations and logging to infrastructure expansion have frequently proceeded without meaningful consultation or community consent.
This undermines Indigenous Peoples’ right to self-determination and violates Malaysia’s commitment under international law, including the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), which mandates the FPIC of indigenous peoples for any project affecting their territories. The consequences are devastating: environmental degradation, cultural erasure, and forced displacement.
AI to Empower, Not to Erase
The denial of land rights has cascading impacts on the right to food, housing, and self-determination. Without land, Indigenous communities loss access to forests, rivers, and resources that are vital for their survival. Climate change, deforestation, and commercial encroachments are further threating traditional food systems and erosion of traditional knowledge, passed down through generations.
As Malaysia embraces digitalisation, it is critical that these technologies are not used to further exclude Indigenous Peoples voices or erase ancestral claims. AI-driven land mapping, and automation in land registries must be designed inclusively, respecting traditional knowledge and community participation. Technology must be harnessed to empower Indigenous communities, to document their histories, protect sacred sites, improve participatory land governance, and preserve culture and languages.
A Call to Action
Over a decade ago, SUHAKAM’s released the National Inquiry Report , its findings remain as relevant and urgent as ever. Despite the Government’s formal acceptance of 17 out of 18 recommendations, progress has been slow and fragmented, reflects a wider lack of political will to place Indigenous rights at the forefront of national priorities.
In commemorating this year’s International Indigenous Peoples Day, SUHAKAM renews it calls for the Government to:
The protection of Indigenous land rights is not a matter of policy convenience, it is a question of justice, dignity, and survival. Governments have a moral and legal duty to safeguard the lands, resources and cultures of Indigenous Peoples, in accordance with international human rights standards. As UNDRIP’s Article 8(2) affirms: States must prevent and redress any for actions that aims to dispossess Indigenous Peoples of their lands, territories, or resources.
The time for action is now, before more of what is irreplaceable is lost forever.
[1] Nor Nyawai v Borneo Pulp Plantations & Ors.
[2] Sagong Tasi v Selangor State Government
[3] Adong bin Kuwau & Ors v Kerajaan Negeri Johor & Anor
KUALA LUMPUR (7 OCTOBER 2025) – The Office of Children’s Commissioner (OCC) of SUHAKAM reminds all parties to uphold the principles of fairness, dignity, and compassion in ensuring a child-sensitive justice system. The best interests of the child must be the primary consideration in the treatment of child witnesses, ensuring access to justice while protecting them from hardship during the judicial processes.
The Child Act 2001 [Act 611] clearly affirms in its Preamble that “Every child is entitled to protection and assistance in all circumstances”, a protection that extends equally to child witnesses. Complementing this, the Evidence of Child Witness Act 2007 [Act 676] and Evidence of Child Witness (Amendment) Act 2023 [Act A1688] were specifically enacted to safeguard child witnesses by introducing child-friendly procedures during court processes.
Importantly, Section 6B of the Evidence of Child Witness Act further requires courts to prohibit improper questions, including those that are misleading, intimidating, humiliating, or based on stereotypes. This provision is designed to shield children from psychological, emotional, and physical harm while giving evidence.
Malaysia ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in 1995, affirming its commitment to uphold the full spectrum of children’s rights. This includes the obligation to ensure that child witnesses and all children in contact with the justice system are treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
In this regard, OCC calls upon all legal practitioners, court officers, and stakeholders to ensure that these safeguards are consistently implemented in practice, so that children are not re-traumatised by their participation in judicial proceedings.
Office for Children’s Commissioner (OCC)
Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
7 October 2025
KUALA LUMPUR (6 October 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) underscores that the national budget is not only a fiscal tool but also a moral and legal obligation of the Government to protect and fulfil the rights of all people in Malaysia. In light of the upcoming tabling of the 2026 Supply Bill (Budget) by the Minister of Finance on 10 October 2025, SUHAKAM urges that Budget 2026 be firmly grounded in a human rights framework, with emphasis on the following priorities:
With subsidy rationalisation underway, targeted assistance must ensure that low-income households are not left vulnerable to rising costs of living. Safeguards are needed so that fiscal reforms do not disproportionately burden the poorest communities.
Many workers in the informal sector and those in the so-called ‘missing middle’ remain excluded from social protection. Budget 2026 should expand coverage of social safety nets, including health insurance, retirement savings, and income support, to these groups.
Health and education are fundamental rights that require guaranteed and sustained financing. SUHAKAM calls for both sectors to be ring-fenced from budget cuts, ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare and education, particularly for marginalised groups.
Climate change poses existential risks, especially to vulnerable rural and coastal communities. Budget 2026 should allocate resources for climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and community resilience programmes to protect lives and livelihoods.
Fiscal discipline must not come at the expense of rights. Responsible budgeting should be guided by the principles of equity, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that every ringgit spent advances the dignity and well-being of people.
Parliamentary and independent oversight bodies must be adequately resourced and empowered to ensure that allocations are implemented effectively and free from misuse. Strong institutions are key to maintaining public trust in the budget process.
The Government has a statutory duty under Section 11(1) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 (Act 597) to provide SUHAKAM with adequate funding to effectively and efficiently carry out its mandate. Budget 2026 must therefore reinforce the independence and capacity of SUHAKAM by guaranteeing sufficient resources for its human rights work as mandated by the Paris Principles.
In conclusion, SUHAKAM reiterates that Budget 2026 is an opportunity to reaffirm Malaysia’s commitment to uphold the rights of all, especially the most vulnerable communities. A rights-based budget is not only fiscally sound but also socially just and sustainable.
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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 6 October 2025
KUALA LUMPUR (4 OCTOBER 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) refers to the media coverage concerning its planned visit to Ba Data Bila, Ulu Baram, and wishes to provide the following clarification.
SUHAKAM wishes to highlight that the investigation being conducted in Ulu Baram is distinct and separate from the judicial review proceedings currently before the Miri High Court, as suggested in the news report citing the Sarawak Forestry Department published by Utusan Sarawak on 2 October 2025.
The investigation in Ulu Baram was initiated following complaints received by SUHAKAM’s Sarawak Office regarding alleged human rights violations. This is in line with Section 14(1) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999, which empowers SUHAKAM to investigate complaints relating to human rights. In this regard, Section 12(3) of the same Act is not applicable in this case. The investigation aims to gather views from multiple stakeholders to ensure fairness and balance.
Regarding the postponement of SUHAKAM’s visit to Ba Data Bila, prior notice of the intended meeting and investigative visit was formally communicated to the Village Headman (Ketua Kaum) of Ba Data Bila through an official letter. Copies of this letter were also furnished to the Long Lama Sub-District Office and the Telang Usan District Office.
Initially, the Village Headman of Ba Data Bila expressed no objection to SUHAKAM’s visit. However, before the scheduled date, he requested for the visit to be deferred until after the conclusion of the judicial review proceedings before the Miri High Court on 30 October 2025. SUHAKAM respected and acceded to this request.
In view of the above, SUHAKAM reiterates that its visit to Ulu Baram is solely related to complaints of human rights violations received by its Sarawak Office and does not concern or interfere with the subject matter of any ongoing court proceedings. Moving forward, SUHAKAM will continue to engage with relevant agencies to ensure that the issues raised are addressed comprehensively and effectively.
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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 4 October 2025
KUALA LUMPUR (3 OCTOBER 2025) The Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC), SUHAKAM urges the Government of Malaysia to ensure that Budget 2026 adopts a child-first approach, where allocations are directed towards the survival, protection, development, and participation of children. In line with Malaysia’s obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the national budget must provide concrete investments that safeguard children’s rights and secure the country’s future.
A strong commitment is required to strengthen the Safe School initiative. This involves allocating sufficient resources to repair and upgrade ageing facilities and learning tools, ensuring that schools nationwide meet safety standards, as well as funding anti-bullying advocacy efforts. Schools must also provide a safe environment for mental and emotional well-being. Budget 2026 should therefore expand investment in mental health services for children by ensuring that more school counsellors and psychologists are placed in high-need areas, accessible mental health hotlines are available for young people, and awareness programmes are developed for parents, teachers, and students to reduce stigma and build a culture of care.
The protection of children from violence, abuse, exploitation, and harmful practices must also be a budgetary priority. More resources are needed for child protection officers, social workers, children’s shelters, and preventive programmes that address violence against children. Equally important is the strengthening of child protection services and resources to fully implement the Child Act 2001 (Act 611), which is long overdue. Without proper funding for protection, children remain vulnerable to harms that undermine their rights and dignity.
Equally urgent is the need to end child poverty and support disadvantaged families. Poverty continues to harm children’s education, health, and future opportunities. Budget 2026 should enhance social protection for children by increasing cash assistance to low-income families and expanding access to nutritious school meals for those in need.
Finally, children’s health and nutrition demand greater investment. Budget 2026 should strengthen nutrition programmes for young children, support school-based health services, and expand primary healthcare facilities in underserved areas. Addressing malnutrition and obesity, together with preventive health measures, will help Malaysia build a healthier generation capable of reaching their full potential.
In conclusion, OCC emphasises that Budget 2026 should serve as an opportunity for Malaysia to demonstrate its sincere commitment to children. Every ringgit allocated to children is an investment in building a stronger, safer, and more resilient Malaysia. Investment in children must be the nation’s highest priority.
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The Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC)
Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 3 October 2025
KUALA LUMPUR (3 OKTOBER 2025) – Pejabat Pesuruhjaya Kanak-kanak (OCC), SUHAKAM menggesa Kerajaan Malaysia agar memastikan Belanjawan 2026 mengambil pendekatan berorientasikan kanak-kanak, di mana peruntukan disalurkan khusus kepada kelangsungan hidup, perlindungan, pembangunan, dan penyertaan kanak-kanak. Selaras dengan obligasi Malaysia di bawah Konvensyen Mengenai Hak Kanak-kanak (UNCRC), belanjawan negara mestilah menyediakan pelaburan konkrit bagi menjamin hak kanak-kanak dan masa depan negara.
Komitmen yang kukuh diperlukan untuk memperkukuh inisiatif Sekolah Selamat. Ini termasuk peruntukan yang mencukupi bagi membaik pulih dan menaik taraf kemudahan sekolah serta alatan pembelajaran yang usang, memastikan sekolah di seluruh negara mencapai piawaian keselamatan, dan membiayai usaha advokasi anti-buli. Sekolah juga mesti menyediakan persekitaran yang selamat untuk kesejahteraan mental dan emosi. Belanjawan 2026 wajar memperluaskan pelaburan dalam perkhidmatan kesihatan mental kanak-kanak dengan menambah bilangan kaunselor dan psikologi di kawasan berkeperluan tinggi, menyediakan talian bantuan kesihatan mental yang mudah dicapai oleh golongan muda, serta membangunkan program kesedaran kepada ibu bapa, guru, dan murid bagi mengurangkan stigma serta membina budaya prihatin.
Perlindungan kanak-kanak daripada keganasan, penderaan, eksploitasi, dan amalan berbahaya juga perlu menjadi keutamaan belanjawan. Lebih banyak sumber diperlukan untuk pegawai perlindungan kanak-kanak, pekerja sosial, rumah perlindungan, serta program pencegahan yang menangani keganasan terhadap kanak-kanak. Turut sama penting ialah memperkukuh perkhidmatan dan sumber bagi perlindungan kanak-kanak untuk perlaksanaan sepenuhnya Akta Kanak-kanak 2001 (Akta 611), yang telah lama tertangguh. Tanpa peruntukan yang mencukupi, kanak-kanak akan terus terdedah kepada pelbagai bentuk bahaya dan kemudaratan yang menjejaskan hak dan maruah mereka.
Keperluan mendesak yang lain ialah menamatkan kemiskinan kanak-kanak dan menyokong keluarga yang kurang berkemampuan. Kemiskinan terus memberi kesan buruk terhadap pendidikan, kesihatan, dan menjejaskan peluang masa depan kanak-kanak. Belanjawan 2026 seharusnya memperkukuh perlindungan sosial untuk kanak-kanak dengan meningkatkan bantuan kewangan kepada keluarga berpendapatan rendah dan memperluaskan akses kepada makanan berkhasiat di sekolah untuk murid yang memerlukan.
Kesihatan dan pemakanan kanak-kanak juga menuntut pelaburan yang lebih besar. Belanjawan 2026 wajar memperkukuh program pemakanan untuk kanak-kanak kecil, menyokong perkhidmatan kesihatan berasaskan sekolah, dan memperluaskan fasiliti penjagaan kesihatan primer di kawasan yang kurang mendapat liputan. Usaha menangani masalah kekurangan zat makanan dan obesiti, bersama dengan langkah pencegahan kesihatan, akan membantu Malaysia melahirkan generasi yang lebih sihat dan berdaya saing untuk mencapai potensi penuh mereka.
Kesimpulannya, OCC menegaskan bahawa Belanjawan 2026 adalah peluang penting bagi Malaysia untuk menunjukkan komitmen yang tulen terhadap hak kanak-kanak. Setiap ringgit yang diperuntukkan untuk kanak-kanak adalah pelaburan dalam membina Malaysia yang lebih kukuh, selamat, dan berdaya tahan. Pelaburan terhadap kanak-kanak mesti menjadi keutamaan tertinggi negara.
-TAMAT-
Pejabat Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak (OCC)
Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Tarikh: 3 Oktober 2025
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