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.
PEGAWAI PENYELIDIK GRED 9, BAHAGIAN PERUNDANGAN DAN TRITI ANTARABANGSA (LITD)
Maklumat lanjut:
KUALA LUMPUR (17 APRIL 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses grave concern over the arrest and remand of a TikTok user, reportedly in connection with a video containing remarks against the Prime Minister of Malaysia.
SUHAKAM reiterates that freedom of expression is a fundamental liberty guaranteed under Article 10 of the Federal Constitution and is essential to the functioning of a democratic society. This right includes the freedom to express dissent, criticism, and opinions on matters of public interest, including those concerning public officials and government leadership.
In this context, SUHAKAM emphasises that the arrest and custodial remand of an individual for non-violent expression was a disproportionate and unlawful measure. The use of criminal sanctions in such cases raises serious concerns regarding the shrinking of civic space and risks creating a chilling effect on the exercise of free expression in Malaysia.
SUHAKAM is particularly concerned with the continued reliance on broad and vaguely worded provisions under laws such as the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Section 233) as well as the Sedition Act 1948. These laws have long been subject to criticism for their wide scope and susceptibility to inconsistent interpretation which may result in the undue restriction of legitimate expression, including criticism of public office holders.
While SUHAKAM acknowledges that freedom of expression may be subject to restrictions, international human rights standards are clear that such limitations must meet the strict tests of legality, necessity, and proportionality. In particular, restrictions must pursue a legitimate aim and must be the least intrusive means available. Arrest and detention should be measures of last resort, not default responses to speech-related offences.
SUHAKAM therefore calls on the Government and relevant enforcement authorities to:
SUHAKAM further underscores that public officials must be prepared to tolerate a higher degree of scrutiny and criticism. The use of criminal law to shield public figures from criticism is inconsistent with democratic principles and undermines public confidence in governance. This incident highlights the urgent need for a rights-based recalibration of Malaysia’s approach to regulating online expression, one that protects individuals from harm without suppressing legitimate dissent.
SUHAKAM remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding freedom of expression and calls on all stakeholders to uphold and respect this fundamental right.
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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
17 April 2026
KUALA LUMPUR (11 APRIL 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in West Asia and expresses hope that it will bring an immediate end to the immense suffering endured by civilians, particularly women and children.
Notwithstanding this positive development, SUHAKAM emphasises that a ceasefire must be accompanied by credible accountability measures for all alleged violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law committed during the conflict.
SUHAKAM is gravely concerned by reports that Palestinian detainees are being subjected to mass death sentences, with claims that thousands may face capital punishment. In this regard, SUHAKAM echoes the concerns raised by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, which has warned that legislative measures enabling the imposition of the death penalty against Palestinians may constitute a discriminatory regime of capital punishment, fundamentally incompatible with international law. Such measures raise serious and systemic due process violations, including the denial of fair trial guarantees and judicial independence. The targeted application of the death penalty against a specific population group may amount to collective punishment and could constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law, potentially rising to the level of international crimes.
The imposition of the death penalty in a discriminatory manner, reportedly applied exclusively against Palestinians, constitutes a grave violation of fundamental human rights, including the right to life, equality before the law, and the right to a fair trial.
In this regard, SUHAKAM calls on the European Union to urgently review and suspend the EU–Israel Association Agreement, in line with its human rights commitments. Continued economic engagement in the face of credible allegations of grave violations risks undermining the integrity of international human rights standards.
SUHAKAM further urges the international community to take immediate and concrete measures to ensure the protection of civilians, uphold the rule of law, and guarantee accountability for all violations, without exception. A just and lasting peace can only be achieved through full respect for international law, human dignity, and fundamental freedoms for all.
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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
11 April 2026
KUALA LUMPUR (10 APRIL 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses concern regarding a recent incident at a public forum in Kuala Lumpur, where three individuals were reportedly arrested and detained by the police after briefly displaying placards during a speech by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner. SUHAKAM notes that the individuals have since been released. However, despite their subsequent release, SUHAKAM remains concerned about the circumstances and justification for the initial arrests.
Given that the act in question appears to have been peaceful and within the scope of protected expression, the arrests raise important questions about how the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are interpreted and applied in practice. In this regard, SUHAKAM reiterates its consistent position that the right to freedom of expression is a fundamental liberty guaranteed under Article 10(1)(a) of the Federal Constitution and Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). As a cornerstone of a democratic society, this right enables individuals to express views, engage in public discourse, and participate meaningfully in matters of public interest. While not absolute, any restrictions must comply with established international human rights principles, including those reflected in Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which require that limitations be lawful, necessary, and proportionate.
In this regard, SUHAKAM emphasises that the Government has an obligation not only to regulate, but also to facilitate and protect the exercise of these rights. This includes ensuring that individuals are able to express their views peacefully and without undue interference, while maintaining public order. Any enforcement measures should be undertaken in a manner that is proportionate, non-arbitrary, and consistent with the rule of law, with full adherence to due process guarantees. In this context, it is important that the application of criminal sanctions, particularly those with broad or general scope, is carefully considered to ensure that it does not result in a disproportionate impact or inadvertently discourage the legitimate exercise of freedom of expression.
SUHAKAM also notes that the issues raised in the forum relate to matters of public concern that have previously attracted public attention, including SUHAKAM’s earlier call for an independent and transparent inquiry to uphold institutional integrity and public confidence. In such contexts, it is especially important that differing views can be expressed peacefully and that all parties are treated fairly and in accordance with the law.
SUHAKAM therefore calls on all relevant authorities to ensure that any enforcement measures arising from this incident are undertaken in a fair, measured, and proportionate manner, consistent with constitutional guarantees and international human rights standards. SUHAKAM remains committed to upholding both freedom of expression and public order, recognising that both are essential and mutually reinforcing pillars of a democratic society.
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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
10 April 2026
KUALA LUMPUR (26 MARCH 2026) – In conjunction with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, observed annually on 21 March. The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) calls for a renewed national commitment to eradicate racial discrimination and to strengthen unity, social cohesion, and mutual respect in building a more inclusive and harmonious Malaysia.
As Malaysia celebrates the richness of its diversity through various cultural and religious festivals throughout the year, these moments of celebration should serve as important reminders of the values that bind the nation together. Festivals in Malaysia provide opportunities for people of different backgrounds to interact, appreciate one another’s traditions, and reinforce the spirit of mutual respect and solidarity that is essential to maintaining national harmony.
Nevertheless, recent public discourse, including incidents that have sparked racial and religious tensions, demonstrates that the risk of discrimination and division remains present within society. These developments highlight the need for sustained and collective efforts by all segments of society to promote mutual understanding, respect for diversity, and responsible public dialogue that safeguards harmony in Malaysia’s plural society. Strengthening national unity requires a sustained commitment to the constitutional principle that all persons are equal before the law and entitled to the equal protection of the law, as guaranteed under Article 8(1) of the Federal Constitution, while also recognising that Article 8(2) prohibits discrimination against citizens on the grounds of religion, race, descent, place of birth or gender.
In this regard, SUHAKAM urges the Government of Malaysia to take steps towards acceding to the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), a core international human rights treaty ratified by the vast majority of United Nations Member States. Within the ASEAN region, several countries are already States Parties to ICERD, including the Philippines (1967), Lao PDR (1974), Vietnam (1982), Cambodia (1983), Indonesia (1999), Thailand (2003), and Singapore (2017), reflecting a shared regional commitment to addressing racial discrimination. Accession to ICERD would provide Malaysia with a comprehensive and internationally recognised framework to guide national efforts in preventing and addressing racial discrimination, strengthen legal safeguards and institutional accountability, and enhance policy coherence across sectors. It would also support greater public confidence by demonstrating Malaysia’s commitment to upholding the principles of equality and non-discrimination, while reinforcing its credibility and leadership within the regional and international human rights community.
In this connection, commitments outlined in the Pakatan Harapan manifesto, including the establishment of a National Consultative Council for Harmony and the proposed National Harmony Act to promote unity and address discrimination, provide an important foundation for advancing these efforts. SUHAKAM also recalls that Malaysia had previously indicated its intention to consider accession to ICERD at the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly on 28 September 2018. Moving forward, a constructive and inclusive approach, one that takes into account Malaysia’s constitutional framework and societal context, will be important in ensuring that progress in this area continues to foster unity and public confidence. In parallel, continued efforts to align Malaysia’s legal and policy frameworks with international human rights standards would further reinforce national initiatives to combat racial discrimination, strengthen public trust, and promote a more inclusive, just, and harmonious Malaysia.
On this International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, SUHAKAM calls all Malaysians to stand united in rejecting racism, xenophobia, and racial discrimination in all its forms. Building a truly harmonious and inclusive society requires not only strong laws and policies, but also the collective will of all Malaysians to embrace diversity as a strength and uphold the values of equality, dignity, and mutual respect.
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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
26 March 2026
KUALA LUMPUR (18 MARCH 2026) – The Children’s Commissioners (CC) express deep concern over the recent increase in firecracker-related incidents involving children in Malaysia, including a recent case in Kedah where a 4 year old boy lost several fingers and sustained serious injuries to his hand following a firecracker explosion.
Statistics reported in 2025 indicate that more than 200 injuries related to firecrackers occur annually in Malaysia, including cases involving loss of fingers and other grievous injuries. While not all of these cases involve children, the risks to children remain significant.
Although the Explosives Act 1957 [Act 207] provides for severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to seven years, a fine of RM10,000, or both, against those who unlawfully use explosives in a manner that endangers life or property, visibly weak enforcement has rendered the law largely ineffective. At the same time, there is a need to review and strengthen the existing legal framework, including amendments to Act 207, to tighten controls and impose heavier penalties on those who smuggle, distribute, or sell illegal firecrackers. In the best interests of children, the Children’s Commissioners call upon the Royal Malaysia Police and relevant authorities to take immediate and decisive action to curb the sale and use of illegal and unapproved firecrackers.
The responsibility to ensure the safety of children in regards to the usage of firecrackers does not rest exclusively on the shoulders of the authorities. Parents are urged to educate their children that momentary excitement from playing with illegal firecrackers is not worth the lifelong consequences of serious injury or death. Religious leaders, including imams, are also encouraged to reinforce this message through sermons and community engagement. Beyond safety concerns, excessive use of firecrackers constitutes wastefulness – a practice prohibited across religions and moral traditions and one that should be avoided at all times.
Festive seasons such as Aidilfitri and many more are meant to foster harmony, reflection, and togetherness. Uncontrolled use of firecrackers not only endangers lives but also disrupts rest for the elderly and young children, and causes significant disturbance during religious observances, including Tarawih prayers.
Therefore, the Children’s Commissioners unreservedly call on all parties to work hand-in-hand to ensure that the safety and wellbeing of children are not threatened by the proliferation of illegal and dangerous fireworks.
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Office of the Children’s Commissioner
The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
18 March 2026
KUALA LUMPUR (15 MARCH 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), the All-Party Parliamentary Group Malaysia on Children’s Rights (APPGM-CR), and all the CSO working on children’s rights strongly condemn the recent use of the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to detain children who are victims of terrorist recruitment through social media and online gaming platforms.
There is growing international concern that terrorist groups are increasingly exploiting digital spaces and online gaming platforms to recruit and indoctrinate children. These tactics are evolving rapidly and often outpace the responses of governments. In such circumstances, the children involved are primarily victims of manipulation, grooming, and indoctrination, and should therefore be addressed through protection, rehabilitation, and psychosocial intervention, rather than restrictive security detention.
While we welcome the reported release of the children involved on the 13th of March 2026, it is essential that any further action prioritizes structured rehabilitation and monitoring mechanisms, particularly in cases where children may have been subjected to attempted online extremist recruitment. Detaining children under SOSMA, a law designed to address serious national security threats, is inconsistent with the principle of the best interests of the child and undermines Malaysia’s obligation to protect children from exploitation. The use of SOSMA against children raises serious concerns, as the procedural law does not provide child-specific safeguards, adequate judicial oversight, or protections consistent with the child justice system, particularly in cases involving national security offences.
As a State Party to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) since 1995, Malaysia has clear international obligations to ensure that children are protected from arbitrary or prolonged deprivation of liberty. The justice system must also ensure that children’s treatment prioritizes the best interests of the child, due process, and meaningful access to justice.
The Child Act 2001 provides a clear legal framework that prioritises the care, protection, rehabilitation and welfare of children exposed to harm, exploitation or criminal influence. Children who have been targeted by extremist networks should therefore be addressed through child protection mechanisms, including counselling, deradicalisation programmes, family support and community-based rehabilitation. Such interventions should incorporate appropriate psychosocial support, structured monitoring and active parental involvement to reduce the risk of recurrence. Deradicalisation initiatives must also be designed to include child-sensitive and age-appropriate modules that take into account the developmental needs, vulnerabilities and best interests of the child.
SUHAKAM and APPGM-CR therefore call upon the Prime Minister of Malaysia to:
Malaysia must adopt a child-centered and rights-based approach in responding to emerging threats of online extremist recruitment. Protecting children from terrorist exploitation requires strong child protection systems, early intervention, and rehabilitation, not prolonged security detention.
SUHAKAM and APPGM-CR remain committed to working with the Government and the enforcement agencies to ensure that Malaysia’s counter-terrorism measures uphold human rights and protect the best interests of every child.
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Issued jointly by:
Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
All-Party Parliamentary Group Malaysia Children’s Rights (APPGM-CR)
Endorsed by:
Initiative to Promote Tolerance & Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY)
Suara Rakyat Malaysia (SUARAM)
Prof. Emeritus Dato’ Noor Aziah Mohd Awal, SUHAKAM 1st Children Commissioner
MANDIRI
KUALA LUMPUR (11 MARCH 2026) – In an era where digital narratives can either empower or endanger women and girls, ethical and responsible media practices are more critical than ever. Therefore, in conjunction with International Women’s Day 2026 on 8 March, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) and the Malaysian Media Council (MMM) jointly reaffirm our shared commitment to advancing gender equality, safeguarding human dignity, and strengthening ethical and responsible media practices in Malaysia.
International Women’s Day serves as a timely reminder that equality and non-discrimination must be reflected not only in law and policy, but also in public discourse. The media play a powerful role in shaping societal attitudes, influencing narratives, and reinforcing or challenging harmful stereotypes. As such, strengthening gender-responsive and rights-respecting media practices are essential to building a more inclusive and just society.
Following constructive engagement between both institutions, SUHAKAM and MMM have expressed their intention to strengthen dialogue and cooperation at the intersection of human rights and media governance. This engagement reflects the complementary roles of both institutions and shared recognition that ethical journalism and human rights protection are mutually reinforcing.
SUHAKAM, established under the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 (Act 597), is mandated to promote and protect human rights, including equality, dignity, and freedom of expression. MMM, established under the Media Council Act 2025 (Act 868), is an independent statutory body responsible for upholding ethical journalism, administering the Media Council Code of Conduct, managing complaints on unethical media practices, and strengthening public trust in the media. This engagement recognises the independence and statutory mandates of both institutions while encouraging dialogue in the public interest.
Areas of potential collaboration may include joint capacity-building initiatives, the possible development of training modules, and the exploration of a working group to consider media ethics through a gender lens.
In this regard, both institutions intend to explore ways to:
These initiatives are broadly aligned with Malaysia’s commitments under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which underscore the importance of addressing harmful stereotyping, gender-based discrimination, and violence through preventive and educational approaches.
Recent trends in online harassment and gendered misinformation underscore the urgency of this initiative. As Malaysia navigates an evolving media landscape shaped by digital transformation, misinformation, and emerging technologies, media freedom must continue to be exercised with responsibility and respect for human dignity. Upholding ethical standards while safeguarding freedom of expression is fundamental to democratic accountability and public trust.
In commemorating International Women’s Day, SUHAKAM and MMM call upon media practitioners, editors, policymakers, and the public to collectively foster a media environment that promotes equality, fairness, and respect. Advancing women’s rights and strengthening ethical journalism are shared responsibilities that require sustained commitment towards rights, justice and action.
Melissa Akhir, SUHAKAM Commissioner, said:
“International Women’s Day reminds us of the importance of fostering a media environment that promotes equality, fairness, and respect. Advancing women’s rights and strengthening ethical journalism are shared responsibilities that require sustained commitment.”
Gayathry Venkiteswaran, MMM Board Member, said:
“The Malaysian Media Council is pleased to work with SUHAKAM on this very important initiative to strengthen gender equality and sensitivity in news coverage, as we recognise that ethical, fair, and inclusive reporting is essential to public trust and democratic discourse. Gender-sensitive reporting helps the public better understand the realities and contributions of all members of society, leading to more accurate journalism and more informed public debate. We at the Malaysian Media Council commit to advancing newsroom standards that both safeguard press freedom and protect women journalists from discrimination, harassment, and threats that undermine their ability to report freely and safely.”
Together, both SUHAKAM and MMM reaffirm that a gender-responsive, rights-aligned and accountable media ecosystem is fundamental to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender, can participate in public life with dignity, equality and safety.
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Issued jointly by:
Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Malaysian Media Council (MMM)
KUALA LUMPUR (9 MARCH 2026) – The Children’s Commissioners refer to the press conference held by the Inspector-General of Police on 6 March 2026 concerning the detention of six individuals under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA), including three children, following a special operation conducted on 14 and 15 February 2026.
The Children’s Commissioner of SUHAKAM wish to state that the detention of children under SOSMA contravenes Section 84(1) of the Child Act 2001 [Act 611], which requires that a child who is arrested must be brought before the Court for Children within twenty-four hours. Furthermore, Section 83(1) of Act 611 expressly provides that the Child Act prevails over all other laws relating to the arrest, detention and trial of children. The failure to observe this overriding safeguard constitutes a clear violation of the child’s rights.
The Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) received a complaint regarding the matter on 26 February 2026 and issued notifications on 2 March 2026 and subsequently on 5 March 2026 to the the Royal Malaysia Police informing them of its intention to visit the children concerned in order to ensure that their rights while under police detention are protected. These notifications were made pursuant to the powers of the Children’s Commissioners under Section 4(2)(c) and (d) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 [Act 597]. The same Act further provides that such visits shall not be prevented, provided that the procedures prescribed by the laws governing the place of detention are complied with. Despite the police being in communication with the OCC regarding this matter, access has yet to be granted.
The Children’s Commissioners express disappointment at the continued delay in allowing the OCC to visit the children currently detained under SOSMA, particularly when the Inspector-General of Police stated during the press conference that the police would adopt a prudent approach to ensure that the identity, dignity and future of the three child suspects are protected, in accordance with the Child Act 2001 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. If such assurances are genuine, the OCC should be granted immediate access to the children concerned without further delay.
The OCC reiterates its clear and unequivocal position that children must not be detained under SOSMA. As the Act permits detention without judicial oversight, it is fundamentally incompatible with established child rights standards. Accordingly, any provision allowing for the detention of children under SOSMA should be repealed in its entirety.
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Office of the Children’s Commissioner
The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
9 March 2026
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