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KUALA LUMPUR (8 JULY 2026) – On 4^th July 2026, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), Child Safeguarding Initiative (CSI), and Majlis Perkhidmatan Masyarakat Sabah (MPMS) have successfully organised the Child Safeguarding Conference Sabah 2026, bringing together government agencies, civil society organisations, educational institutions, healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies, child protection practitioners, and strategic partners to strengthen collective efforts in protecting children’s rights and safety.

Held under the theme “Building Communities That Protect“, the Conference reaffirmed that safeguarding children is a shared responsibility that requires coordinated action from families, schools, communities, civil society, the private sector, and government. The Conference served as an important platform to strengthen collaboration, share good practices, and explore practical solutions to address the evolving challenges affecting children in Sabah.

In her opening address, Yang Berhormat Datuk Rina Jainal, Assistant Minister of Women, Community Welfare, and People’s Well-being Sabah, reaffirmed the Sabah State Government’s commitment to strengthening child protection systems through cross-sector collaboration, early intervention, and greater community awareness. She stressed that safeguarding efforts must be strengthened at every level of society to ensure that every child grows up in a safe and supportive environment.

The Conference commenced with keynote addresses by Mr. Sam Gipson, Chair of the Association of International Malaysian Schools and Principal of Kinabalu International School (KIS), and Puan Elsie Primus, Registrar of the Subordinate Courts of Sabah and Sarawak. Both speakers underscored the importance of early intervention, prevention, and collective responsibility, emphasising that safeguarding children begins within families and communities before cases reach the justice system.

The Conference featured three dialogue sessions that examined critical issues relating to child safeguarding:

i. What the Law Says and What It Means for Us in Protecting Children

The session examined Malaysia’s legal and policy framework on child protection while identifying gaps in implementation and enforcement. Discussions also addressed emerging and persistent issues affecting children, including online safety, as well as the protection of undocumented, stateless, and indigenous children, highlighting the need for stronger coordination and rights-based implementation.

ii. Protecting Children Starts with Action: Understanding Sabah’s Reporting System

The session provided participants with practical insights into Sabah’s child protection and reporting mechanisms. Representatives from the Royal Malaysia Police (D11), the Hospital SCAN (Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect) Team, and the Department of Social Welfare (JKM) shared their respective roles, inter-agency coordination, and procedures for reporting, investigating, and responding to child protection cases.

iii. Beyond Policy: How Can We Better Advocate for Children’s Rights

The discussion explored how effective advocacy can influence policy reform and strengthen child protection systems. Panellists highlighted the importance of collective action among government agencies, civil society organisations, communities, and children themselves, while sharing best practices to strengthen advocacy, partnerships, and the promotion of children’s rights.

Throughout the Conference, participants reaffirmed that effective child safeguarding requires a whole-of-society approach that combines strong legal and policy frameworks, coordinated reporting and response mechanisms, meaningful participation of children, and sustained collaborations. The Conference also recognised the establishment of the Anti-Bullying Tribunal as an important milestone in strengthening accountability and protection mechanisms for children and young people.  

In her closing address, Datuk Mariati Robert, Vice Chairman of SUHAKAM emphasised that safeguarding children goes beyond policy and legal compliance; it reflects the values of society in ensuring every child is safe, respected, and able to realise their full potential. She underscored that strong laws, effective institutions, and active community participation must work together in a coordinated and child-centred manner.

Datuk Mariati further highlighted that children must be recognised not only as beneficiaries of protection but also as active participants in decisions affecting their lives. She called on all stakeholders to amplify children’s voices and ensure that their views are meaningfully considered in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Looking ahead, SUHAKAM reiterates its commitment to working closely with the Government of Malaysia, the Sabah State Government, civil society organisations, and all relevant stakeholders in advancing the objectives of the National Child Policy and the National Child Action Plan (2026-2030). SUHAKAM also calls for continued collaboration to ensure that safeguarding efforts remain inclusive, particularly for children with disabilities, stateless and undocumented children, and indigenous children, so that no child is left behind. The success of the Conference will ultimately be measured not by the discussions held, but by the concrete actions taken to strengthen child safeguarding systems and improve the safety, dignity, and well-being of every child.

SUHAKAM extends its sincere appreciation to the CSI, MPMS, speakers, panellists, moderators, volunteers, partner organisations, and all participants for their invaluable contributions towards the success of the Conference.

Together, we remain committed to building communities that protect every child.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
8 July 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (2 JULY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) today paid a courtesy call on the Premier of Sarawak, YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, at the Premier’s Office, Kompleks Satria Pertiwi in Petra Jaya, Kuching. The meeting served as an important platform to strengthen cooperation between SUHAKAM and the Sarawak Government in advancing the promotion and protection of human rights through constructive dialogue, policy engagement and strategic collaboration.

During the courtesy call, SUHAKAM expressed its appreciation to the Premier for the warm reception and the opportunity to exchange views on matters relating to human rights, inclusive development and the well-being of the people of Sarawak. SUHAKAM commended the Sarawak Government’s continued commitment to integrating human rights principles into its development agenda, particularly through policies and programmes that improve the lives of vulnerable, disadvantaged and marginalised communities.

The Commission acknowledged the Sarawak Government’s progressive social protection initiatives, including the Endowment Fund Sarawak (EFS), Bantuan Ibu Bersalin (BIB), the Kenyalang Gold Card (KGC), targeted medical assistance programmes, women’s empowerment initiatives, the One Stop Early Intervention Centre (OSEIC) for children and persons with disabilities, investments in early childhood education through SeDidik, as well as the Free Tertiary Education Scheme Sarawak. Collectively, these initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach towards social inclusion and equitable development throughout every stage of life.

SUHAKAM also shared its mandate as Malaysia’s National Human Rights Institution under the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 (Act 597) and reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Sarawak Government in promoting a rights-based approach to governance, policymaking and service delivery.

SUHAKAM and the Sarawak Government recognised the importance of sustained engagement and collaboration in advancing human rights, particularly through initiatives that promote equality, social justice, accessibility and the protection of vulnerable groups. In particular, SUHAKAM Sarawak’s looks forward to strengthening collaboration with the Sarawak Government to advance and protect the rights and well-being of children through joint initiatives in child protection, child participation, public awareness, capacity-building and advocacy, in line with the best interests of every child.

SUHAKAM believes that close collaboration between the Commission and State Governments is essential in ensuring that development is not only economically sustainable but also inclusive, equitable and centred on human dignity. The Commission looks forward to further strengthening its partnership with the Sarawak Government in advancing human rights and improving the quality of life and well-being of all Sarawakians.

“Human rights are most meaningful when they are translated into policies and programmes that improve people’s everyday lives. SUHAKAM welcomes the Sarawak Government’s openness to continued engagement and looks forward to working together in advancing a rights-based and people-centred development agenda,” said SUHAKAM Chairperson, Dato’ Seri Mohd Hishamudin Yunus.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
2 July 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (25 JUNE 2026) – In light of the growing prevalence of cyberbullying, hate speech, online harassment, and other harmful digital content, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) wishes to remind all members of the public that the right to freedom of expression carries corresponding duties and responsibilities. While individuals are entitled to express their views and opinions, such expression must not infringe upon the rights, dignity, safety, or well-being of others.

SUHAKAM recalls that international human rights standards, including Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the principles reflected in the Article 20(2) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), recognise that while freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it carries duties and responsibilities. Expressions that incite discrimination, hostility or violence, whether online or offline, undermine human dignity, threaten social cohesion, and may warrant appropriate legal and regulatory responses consistent with human rights principles.

The increasing spread of hateful, threatening, discriminatory, and abusive content online poses serious risks to individuals and society as a whole. Beyond causing psychological and emotional harm to those targeted, such conduct can foster hostility, deepen social divisions, normalise prejudice, and create an environment that is conducive to discrimination and violence. Particularly alarming are instances where online discourse escalates into threats, calls for violence, or incitement against individuals and communities based on their identity, status, or perceived differences.

SUHAKAM unequivocally condemns all forms of cyberbullying, hate speech, threats of violence, and incitement to discrimination, hostility, or harm. The normalisation of such behaviour in digital spaces undermines human dignity, social cohesion, and public safety. No individual should be subjected to intimidation, harassment, or abuse for who they are, their beliefs, or their circumstances.

Those who misuse social media and digital platforms to spread hatred, harass others, or advocate violence must be held accountable for their actions. Freedom of expression must never be invoked as a justification for conduct that threatens the rights and safety of others. Where such actions contravene the law, appropriate and proportionate enforcement measures should be taken to ensure accountability and to deter future violations.

SUHAKAM therefore calls upon the Government and relevant authorities to strengthen efforts to address online harm through effective enforcement of existing laws, enhanced digital safety measures, and greater public awareness on responsible online conduct. At the same time, social media platforms, educational institutions, civil society organisations, and the wider public must play an active role in promoting digital literacy, respectful engagement, and a culture of empathy and mutual respect.

The digital sphere must not become a sanctuary for hatred, intimidation, or impunity. It should remain a space where rights are exercised responsibly and where public discourse is guided by the principles of human dignity, equality, inclusivity, and the rule of law. Only through collective responsibility and accountability can we ensure that online spaces remain safe, respectful, and conducive to constructive dialogue for all.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
25 June 2026

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

KUALA LUMPUR (10 JUNE 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the statement by Home Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail that the Government is prepared to facilitate further investigations based on the findings and recommendations of SUHAKAM’s Public Inquiry into the incident at Taiping Prison, Perak. The Minister’s assurance that “what is wrong is wrong” and that no wrongdoing will be protected reflects an important commitment to accountability and the rule of law.

The findings of the Public Inquiry revealed serious violations of the human rights of detainees and raised concerns regarding the conduct of certain prison personnel, institutional accountability, and the adequacy of existing safeguards within places of detention. These findings were reached following a comprehensive inquiry process involving witness testimonies, documentary evidence and expert assessments.

In this regard, SUHAKAM hopes that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will complete its investigations thoroughly, independently and expeditiously, taking into account the findings and evidence presented during the Public Inquiry. Where sufficient evidence exists, appropriate criminal prosecution should be taken against all individuals found to have committed offences, regardless of rank or position.

SUHAKAM further emphasises that accountability should not rest solely with criminal investigations. All relevant agencies, including those responsible for disciplinary oversight, governance, integrity and public service accountability, should undertake the necessary follow-up actions within their respective mandates. Ensuring accountability at every level is essential not only for justice to be served, but also for restoring public confidence in state institutions.

The Commission also welcomes the commitment expressed by the Malaysian Prisons Department to cooperate fully with the relevant authorities and to review the findings and recommendations of the Public Inquiry. Meaningful institutional reform, including the implementation of the Inquiry’s recommendations, is necessary to prevent similar incidents from recurring.

Pursuant to Section 13(3) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 [Act 597], SUHAKAM will convene an engagement session with the relevant agencies to obtain updates and monitor the status of actions taken in response to the findings and recommendations of the Public Inquiry. The Commission remains committed to ensuring that the recommendations are meaningfully considered and effectively implemented.

The credibility of any justice system is measured not by how it treats the powerful, but by how it treats those under its custody and control. The Commission therefore urges all relevant authorities to act decisively on the findings of the Public Inquiry and demonstrate that human rights violations will neither be tolerated nor ignored.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
10 June 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (9 JUNE 2026) – The Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the successful conclusion of the Symposium on Children’s Rights Legislative Reform and commends the commitment demonstrated by policymakers, parliamentarians, government agencies, civil society organisations, academics, and child rights advocates in advancing discussions on strengthening Malaysia’s child protection ecosystem. The symposium provided an important platform to assess Malaysia’s progress in implementing its obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), identify persistent gaps in law, policy and implementation, and explore reforms necessary to ensure that every child enjoys their rights without discrimination and in accordance with the principle of the best interests of the child.

As an independent mechanism mandated to promote and protect the rights of children in Malaysia, the OCC monitors the implementation of children’s rights, receives complaints concerning violations of those rights, and advocates for laws, policies and practices that uphold the rights and best interests of every child. The discussions throughout the symposium highlighted that the advancement of children’s rights requires not only strong legal frameworks, but also effective implementation, adequate resources and coordinated institutional responses.

Malaysia has been a State Party to the CRC for more than three decades. Over the years, Malaysia has undertaken important efforts to strengthen child protection through legislative amendments, policy development and the establishment of various child protection mechanisms. These developments reflect Malaysia’s continued commitment towards building a stronger system for children. Nevertheless, the next phase of child rights advancement requires moving beyond the existence of laws towards ensuring their meaningful implementation. The effectiveness of any legal framework ultimately depends on whether the institutions entrusted with protecting children are equipped with sufficient resources, trained personnel, sustainable funding, and operational capacity to deliver protection in practice.

The OCC notes that many contemporary challenges affecting children do not arise solely from legislative gaps, but also from systemic implementation barriers. These include challenges relating to inter-agency coordination, availability of specialised services, human resource constraints among frontline child protection actors, data collection and monitoring mechanisms, and the capacity to translate policies into timely and effective interventions for children. Existing mechanisms established under the Child Act 2001 and related frameworks must therefore be continuously strengthened to ensure that the safeguards envisioned by law are fully realised. A child protection system is only as effective as its ability to reach children when protection is needed. This requires sustained investment in social services, professionalisation of the child protection workforce, evidence-based policymaking and stronger institutional coordination.

At the same time, the OCC recognises that child rights implementation requires meaningful engagement with Malaysia’s social, cultural and community contexts. The universality of children’s rights under the CRC is strengthened when implemented through approaches that acknowledge local realities while preserving shared fundamental values of dignity, protection, non-discrimination, participation and the best interests of the child. Constructive dialogue involving policymakers, communities, religious leaders, civil society organisations, families and children themselves remains essential in ensuring that reforms are both principled and practically sustainable.

The symposium further highlighted several longstanding child rights issues requiring continued attention, including access to protection for vulnerable children, strengthening child-friendly justice systems, safeguarding children’s health and wellbeing, and ensuring that every child is protected from situations of violence, neglect, exploitation and exclusion. Many of these concerns have been consistently raised by the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, SUHAKAM, the OCC, civil society organisations and child rights advocates. The symposium has provided an important opportunity to reaffirm the need for a whole-of-society approach in strengthening Malaysia’s child protection ecosystem.

Moving forward, the OCC stands ready to support Members of Parliament, government agencies and other stakeholders through evidence-based recommendations, monitoring, research and engagement with children and communities. Ensuring that children’s voices are heard and considered in decision-making processes remains central to building policies that respond effectively to their lived realities. The OCC emphasises that Malaysia’s continued progress in child rights requires translating commitments into measurable outcomes. Strengthening implementation capacity, ensuring adequate resources and addressing systemic barriers are essential to fulfilling Malaysia’s obligations under the CRC and ensuring that every child can grow up in an environment that respects their dignity, rights and full potential.

The OCC hopes that the recommendations and insights emerging from this symposium will contribute to renewed national commitment towards advancing children’s rights and building a sustainable, inclusive and effective child protection system for all children in Malaysia.

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Office of the Children’s Commissioner
The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
9 June 2026