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KUALA LUMPUR (18 AUGUST 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim of the Government’s intention to abolish the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (AUKU). This marks an important step towards a higher education environment that upholds academic freedom, institutional autonomy, freedom of expression and association, and meaningful student participation.

SUHAKAM recalls that concerns over restrictions imposed by AUKU are longstanding. In Muhammad Hilman Idham & Ors v Kerajaan Malaysia & Ors, the Court of Appeal, by majority, held that the then section 15(5)(a) of AUKU, which restricted students from expressing support for or opposition to political parties, was unconstitutional. The Court affirmed that restrictions on freedom of speech must be reasonable and justifiable under Article 10(2)(a) of the Federal Constitution, finding no sufficient nexus between a university student’s expression of political support or opposition and the protection of public order or morality.

The decision carries significance beyond the provision challenged. It affirms that students do not cease to enjoy their constitutional rights upon entering university and that restrictions on those rights must not be arbitrary or disproportionate. Universities should foster critical inquiry, independent thought and responsible participation in public life. In the words of Justice Hishamudin Yunus, delivering the judgment of the Court of Appeal, “Universities should be the breeding ground of reformers and thinkers and not institutions to produce students trained as robots”.

SUHAKAM therefore views the proposed abolition of AUKU as more than the repeal of a statute. It provides an opportunity to reshape the relationship between the State, universities, academics and students by strengthening institutional independence while ensuring transparency and accountability. Given AUKU’s role in the establishment, constitutions and governance structures of public universities, its repeal should be accompanied by clear transitional arrangements to ensure continuity in university administration without reproducing provisions that unnecessarily restrict fundamental freedoms.

SUHAKAM notes the Prime Minister’s assurance that any future arrangement should not reintroduce restrictions on student freedom. Any new or revised higher education framework should be grounded in human rights principles and developed through meaningful consultation with students, academics, university leadership, civil society and other relevant stakeholders. It should also extend beyond student political participation by safeguarding the ability of academics and researchers to teach, research, publish, exchange ideas and participate in public discourse without undue interference or fear of retaliation, while protecting students’ rights to express their views, associate and assemble peacefully, subject only to restrictions that are lawful, necessary and proportionate.

Institutional autonomy must also be meaningful in practice, balancing accountability for public resources with safeguards against undue interference in academic affairs. After more than five decades of AUKU, its proposed abolition should bring substantive change to Malaysia’s higher education landscape. Ultimately, universities should be places where ideas can be freely challenged and debated, and where students are empowered to think critically and contribute meaningfully to society.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
18 August 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (4 AUGUST 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) is deeply concerned that the Court of Appeal’s decision to uphold the stay of the High Court’s orders relating to the investigation into the enforced disappearance of Pastor Raymond Koh will further impede efforts to establish the truth and achieve accountability. The ruling also maintains the stay on the enforcement of the damages awarded by the High Court.

While SUHAKAM fully respects the independence of the judiciary and the judicial process, the Commission is deeply concerned that the continued delay in implementing the High Court’s orders will further prolong the search for truth and justice in a case that has remained unresolved for more than nine years.

In its landmark 2019 Public Inquiry, SUHAKAM concluded that Pastor Raymond Koh was the victim of an enforced disappearance carried out by agents of the State. In November 2025, the High Court similarly found the Government and the police liable for his enforced disappearance and ordered, among others, that investigations be reopened. Those findings represented an important step towards accountability and offered renewed hope to the family that the truth would finally be uncovered.

The passage of time inevitably increases the risk that evidence may deteriorate, witnesses may become unavailable, and investigative opportunities may be irretrievably lost. Delays in cases involving alleged enforced disappearance not only undermine the effectiveness of investigations but also prolong the suffering of families who have endured years of uncertainty regarding the fate and whereabouts of their loved ones.

Enforced disappearance constitutes one of the gravest violations of human rights. It violates multiple fundamental rights, including the rights to life, liberty, security of person, recognition before the law, and access to an effective remedy. The continuing uncertainty surrounding the fate of the disappeared also inflicts prolonged psychological suffering on their families, who themselves are recognised as victims under international human rights standards.

SUHAKAM reiterates that investigations into alleged enforced disappearances must be prompt, thorough, independent, impartial and effective. Accountability is indispensable not only to provide justice for victims and their families but also to uphold public confidence in the rule of law and ensure that such violations are never repeated. SUHAKAM also renews its call for Malaysia to ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (ICPPED) and to criminalise enforced disappearance as a distinct offence under domestic law. These measures would strengthen Malaysia’s legal framework for preventing enforced disappearances, ensuring accountability, and providing effective remedies for victims and their families.

SUHAKAM stands in solidarity with the family of Pastor Raymond Koh in their continued pursuit of truth and justice. We remain steadfast in advocating for accountability, transparency and respect for human rights, and hope that the legal process will ultimately lead to the full disclosure of the truth regarding Pastor Koh’s disappearance and accountability for those responsible.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
4 August 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (1 AUGUST 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses concern over the police investigations involving environmental activist Shakila Zen, who has been called to provide a statement in connection with a social media post allegedly linking the Pahang royal institution to sand mining activities.

According to reports, the investigation is being conducted under Section 500 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA). While SUHAKAM recognises the legitimate role of law enforcement in investigating alleged offences, any action taken must be necessary, proportionate and consistent with Malaysia’s obligations to uphold human rights, particularly the right to freedom of expression.

Freedom of expression is guaranteed under Article 10(1)(a) of the Federal Constitution and recognised under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). While Malaysia is not yet a party to the ICCPR, Article 19 reflects internationally recognised standards on freedom of expression. Although this right may be subject to lawful restrictions, such limitations must be necessary, proportionate and should not discourage legitimate public discourse on matters of public interest.

Environmental defenders play a vital role in promoting transparency, accountability and public participation in environmental governance. By drawing attention to environmental risks and the impacts of development on affected communities, they contribute to informed public discourse and strengthen environmental governance through greater scrutiny and accountability. This is consistent with Malaysia’s National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAPBHR), which emphasises transparency, meaningful stakeholder engagement and the protection of environmental rights to ensure that development is undertaken responsibly and sustainably. Individuals advocating for environmental protection should therefore be able to carry out their work freely and safely, without fear of intimidation, harassment or reprisals.

The United Nations General Assembly, through Resolution 76/300, recognised the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment as a universal human right. This right is also affirmed at the regional level through the ASEAN Declaration on the Right to a Safe, Clean, Healthy and Sustainable Environment, which underscores the commitment of ASEAN Member States to environmental protection and the enjoyment of environmental rights. The effective enjoyment of this right depends on the protection of procedural environmental rights, including access to information, public participation, access to justice, and the ability to freely express concerns relating to environmental matters.

SUHAKAM also notes with concern reports that Shakila Zen has previously been subjected to threats and harassment in connection with her advocacy work. Human rights defenders should be afforded effective protection against threats, violence, and other forms of retaliation arising from the peaceful exercise of their rights. In line with the United Nations Declaration on Human Rights Defenders, States have a responsibility to ensure that individuals and organisations are able to promote and protect human rights in a safe and enabling environment. This includes safeguarding the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and participation in public affairs, particularly on issues affecting the environment and the wellbeing of communities.

SUHAKAM therefore calls upon the relevant authorities to ensure that any investigation is conducted fairly, independently and in accordance with the principles of necessity, proportionality and due process. The Commission further urges all authorities to ensure that laws are not applied in a manner that creates a chilling effect on legitimate environmental advocacy or discourages public participation in matters concerning environmental protection and sustainable development.

SUHAKAM remains committed to promoting and protecting human rights for all and reiterates that protecting environmental defenders and preserving civic space are essential to advancing environmental justice, sustainable development and the enjoyment of the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
1 August 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (29 JULY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its deep concern over the ongoing land dispute involving the Orang Asli community of Kampung Sungai Cot, Maran, Pahang. While recognising the State Authority’s powers over land administration, SUHAKAM emphasises that such powers must be exercised in accordance with the Federal Constitution, the rule of law and Malaysia’s human rights obligations.

Orang Asli native customary land is far more than an economic asset. It is intrinsically linked to their identity, culture, spirituality, traditional knowledge and survival as Indigenous Peoples. The loss of customary lands therefore threatens not only livelihoods but also the continued existence of their cultural heritage and way of life. SUHAKAM has consistently maintained that the customary land rights of the Orang Asli deserve meaningful recognition and effective protection. Existing legal principles recognise that customary rights arising from the longstanding occupation and use of ancestral lands warrant protection. The Aboriginal Peoples Act 1954 should therefore be implemented in a manner that gives full effect to its protective purpose and safeguards the rights and welfare of Orang Asli communities.

SUHAKAM further reiterates that development cannot come at the expense of the fundamental rights of Indigenous Peoples. Economic development and investment must be pursued in a manner that respects human rights, protects customary land rights and ensures that no community is left behind. This is also reflected in Malaysia’s National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAPBHR), spearheaded by the Prime Minister’s Department together with relevant ministries, which recognises respect for Indigenous Peoples’ rights and environmental protection as essential components of responsible business conduct. Economic interests should never override the rights of Orang Asli and the protection of their customary lands.

Consistent with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), decisions affecting Indigenous Peoples’ lands, territories and resources should only proceed following meaningful consultation and with their Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC). Consultation that occurs only after decisions have effectively been made cannot satisfy the requirements of genuine participation or respect for their rights.

SUHAKAM is particularly concerned that the use of criminal enforcement in the context of unresolved customary land disputes risks escalating tensions and undermining public confidence in efforts to achieve a just resolution. Where there are legitimate and unresolved claims over customary lands, priority should be given to dialogue, mediation and fair legal processes rather than enforcement measures that may further marginalise Orang Asli communities.

SUHAKAM therefore calls upon the Pahang State Government to:

1. ⁠immediately engage in meaningful dialogue with the affected Orang Asli community and all relevant stakeholders;
2. suspend any activities that may permanently affect the disputed customary lands until the claims have been independently and fairly resolved;
3. ensure that any future development affecting Orang Asli customary lands complies with the principle of FPIC; and
4. strengthen mechanisms for recognising, protecting and gazetting Orang Asli customary lands in accordance with the Federal Constitution, domestic jurisprudence and international human rights standards.

SUHAKAM also urges the Federal Government to accelerate comprehensive legal and policy reforms relating to Orang Asli land rights. The recurring nature of such disputes demonstrates the urgent need for a coherent national framework that provides legal certainty while respecting the rights, dignity and self-determination of Indigenous Peoples.

Respect for Indigenous Peoples’ rights is not an obstacle to development. Rather, it is the foundation of sustainable, inclusive and equitable development. Malaysia’s progress should never come at the cost of dispossessing Indigenous communities of the lands that have sustained them for generations. SUHAKAM remains ready to facilitate constructive dialogue with all parties and to continue advocating for solutions that uphold justice, human rights and the rule of law.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
29 July 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (25 JULY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) notes with concern the Court of Appeal’s decision that children born out of wedlock to Malaysian fathers and non-Malaysian mothers are not entitled to Malaysian citizenship under the Federal Constitution.

SUHAKAM fully respects the independence of the judiciary and acknowledges that the Court is required to interpret and apply the Federal Constitution as it currently stands. Nevertheless, the decision highlights continuing gaps in Malaysia’s citizenship framework that may leave some children at risk of statelessness and burdened with indefinite and prolonged legal uncertainty.

Every child has the right to acquire a nationality. Article 7 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), to which Malaysia has been a State Party since 1995, recognises the right of every child to be registered immediately after birth and to acquire a nationality. States are required to implement these rights, particularly where a child would otherwise be rendered stateless. In its Concluding Observations on Malaysia adopted in February 2026, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child urged Malaysia to strengthen its legal framework to ensure that all children have access to nationality without discrimination and to take effective measures to prevent and reduce childhood statelessness. The Committee further emphasised that the best interests of the child and the principle of non-discrimination should guide all decisions affecting children’s nationality rights.

SUHAKAM has consistently maintained that no child should be disadvantaged or denied access to nationality because of the marital status of their parents or circumstances beyond their control. Citizenship should not be determined by moral judgments relating to the circumstances of a child’s birth. Every child is entitled to equal protection and non-discrimination under the law, regardless of the marital status of their parents. A child’s legal identity and future should never depend on decisions or circumstances for which the child bears no responsibility. Citizenship is not merely a legal status; it is the gateway to the enjoyment of many fundamental rights, including access to education, healthcare, social protection, employment and full participation in society.

SUHAKAM therefore reiterates its longstanding call for Malaysia’s citizenship laws and policies to be progressively reformed in line with the principles of equality, non-discrimination and the best interests of the child. While the constitutional amendments allowing Malaysian mothers to confer citizenship on their children born overseas marked an important milestone, further reforms remain necessary to ensure that every child enjoys equal protection and that no child is left without effective access to nationality because of legal or administrative barriers.

Pending broader reforms, SUHAKAM also encourages the Government to continue utilising existing constitutional and administrative mechanisms available under Article 15A of the Federal Constitution which was specifically enacted to prevent children from becoming stateless. The executive discretion must be exercised in accordance with the child’s best interests and to prevent the possibility of children becoming stateless through no fault of theirs.

SUHAKAM remains committed to working constructively with the Government, Parliament and all relevant stakeholders to advance a child rights-based citizenship framework that places the best interests of every child at its core, in line with Malaysia’s obligations under the CRC.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

25 July 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (23 JULY 2026) – The right to participate in political life, including the right to vote and to stand for election as a representative, is a fundamental human right of every citizen without discrimination. According to statistics from the Department for the Development of Persons with Disabilities (JPOKU), Department of Social Welfare (JKM), shared with SUHAKAM on 2 May 2026, Negeri Sembilan alone has 28,976 registered Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) who are eligible to vote. This figure does not include individuals with temporary disabilities arising from various factors such as accidents or illnesses. These statistics underscore the importance of ensuring that the electoral system is genuinely inclusive and guarantees the full, effective and meaningful participation of all voters, regardless of the type of disability they may have.

Access to political participation is a fundamental right that applies to all citizens without discrimination. It is guaranteed under the Federal Constitution, the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 (Act 685), and Article 29 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). However, SUHAKAM’s findings indicate that inclusive participation of PWDs has yet to be fully realised due to various structural barriers before, during and after the electoral process. Accordingly, SUHAKAM calls upon the Election Commission (EC), political parties, election candidates and relevant agencies to safeguard these rights by taking the following measures:

1. Ensure Physical Accessibility Throughout the Electoral Process
   • Ensure that all polling stations comply with the principles of universal design, including the provision of ramps, accessible pathways, designated parking spaces, accessible toilets and polling channels that are easily accessible.
   • Provide appropriate mobility assistance and transportation for PWD voters who require such support.
2. Provide Accessible Election Information for Everyone
   • Make election manifestos available in easy-to-read formats, Braille, large print and digital formats compatible with screen readers.
   • Ensure that websites, campaign materials and manifestos comply with digital accessibility standards.
   • Provide subtitles, closed captions and Malaysian Sign Language (BIM) interpretation during all election talks, debates and campaign events.
3. Strengthen Disability-Friendly Voting Procedures
   • Provide clear information on the rights of PWD voters, including the use of companions and the availability of reasonable accommodation during the voting process.
   • Ensure election officials receive training on disability rights, inclusive communication and the provision of reasonable accommodation, including encouraging the learning of Malaysian Sign Language.
   • Guarantee the secrecy of the ballot and the autonomy of PWD voters throughout the voting process.
4. Expand Inclusive Civic Education
   • Raise awareness among PWDs, their families, caregivers and the wider community about the importance of political participation.
   • Provide election-related information in plain language and in formats that meet the needs of all categories of PWDs.
5. Promote the Participation of PWDs as Election Candidates
   • Encourage political parties to provide opportunities, support and leadership pathways for PWD candidates.
   • Review legal, financial and social barriers that restrict the participation of PWDs as election candidates.

SUHAKAM emphasises that an inclusive democracy is not merely about ensuring that everyone is able to cast their vote, but also about ensuring that every citizen has equal access to information, political campaigns, the voting process and the opportunity to be elected as a representative. Malaysia cannot achieve a truly fair democratic system if any citizen continues to face difficulties or barriers in exercising their political rights solely because of disability. The full and effective participation of PWDs in political life forms part of Malaysia’s commitment to human rights and the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In conjunction with the upcoming Negeri Sembilan State Election, SUHAKAM encourages PWDs, family members, caregivers, organisations representing PWDs, election observers and members of the public to promptly report any barriers encountered throughout the electoral process via email at PWDcommittee@suhakam.org.my. The Negeri Sembilan State Election presents another opportunity for all stakeholders to fulfil their shared responsibility in ensuring meaningful inclusivity throughout the electoral process, particularly for persons with disabilities.

When discussing this issue, SUHAKAM is often asked about the actual number of PWDs who are unable to vote. SUHAKAM’s position is that even if only one person is denied the right to political participation, the electoral process cannot be regarded as fully inclusive, in line with the principle of “Leave No One Behind”.

SUHAKAM remains committed to working closely with the Election Commission, government agencies, political parties, organisations representing persons with disabilities and civil society to strengthen an electoral system that is more inclusive, accessible and respectful of the rights of every Malaysian citizen.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
23 July 2026