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KUALA LUMPUR (8 MARCH 2026) – In conjunction with International Women’s Day observed this year under the theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.”, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to advancing and safeguarding gender equality and women’s rights, in line with international human rights standards, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).

This year’s theme serves as a timely reminder that human rights must be realised in the everyday lives of all women and girls. These include the right to equality before the law and access to justice; the freedom to express themselves and access information; the right to safety in both digital and public spaces; and the ability to participate fully in cultural, scientific and civic life. When these rights are denied or constrained by gendered power dynamics, structural inequalities are reinforced and public trust in institutions is undermined.

SUHAKAM’s external priorities are aligned with the CEDAW Concluding Observations on Malaysia, particularly the four thematic areas identified for Malaysia’s Follow-up Report to CEDAW Concluding Observations due in June, namely:

1. The enactment of comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation against women, including measures to strengthen women’s political leadership and to uphold the rights of women in detention.
2. The eradication of child marriage.
3. The issue of female genital mutilation (FGM); and
4. The protection of the human rights of refugee women and girls.

These priority areas reflect persistent gaps in law, policy and implementation that require urgent and coordinated national action. SUHAKAM will continue to monitor progress, engage relevant stakeholders and advocate for reforms consistent with Malaysia’s obligations under CEDAW, ensuring that commitments translate into tangible protection and equality for all women and girls.

Guided by the ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APF) Gender Strategy that informs the work of national human rights institutions, and pursuant to its broader human rights mandate, SUHAKAM remains committed to addressing gender inequality in substance, structures and culture. This includes monitoring systems affecting women’s access to justice, safeguarding freedom of expression, supporting gender-responsive laws and policies, and confronting discrimination and gender-based violence in all its forms. These efforts reflect SUHAKAM’s determination to mainstream gender equality both internally and externally, fully integrated across all human rights principles.

Through its proposed parliamentary engagement under the APF Gender Strategy follow-up, SUHAKAM underscores International Women’s Day as a critical opportunity to move from commitment to action. SUHAKAM urges all duty bearers, especially government institutions, Parliament and key stakeholders, to work collectively to ensure that human rights are effectively protected and enforced and translated into concrete justice and meaningful outcomes for women and girls throughout Malaysia.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

8 March 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (7 MARCH 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses grave concern over the recent military attacks carried out by the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran, which have significantly escalated tensions in the Middle East and placed civilian lives at grave risk.

Recent reports indicate that the strikes targeted multiple locations in Iran as part of a coordinated military operation, triggering retaliatory actions and raising fears of a wider regional conflict. The ongoing hostilities have already resulted in substantial casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure. 

SUHAKAM emphasises that any use of force that undermines the territorial integrity or political independence of a State is contrary to the fundamental principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, in particular Article 2(4), and is inconsistent with the obligation of States to act in good faith as provided under Article 2(2). In this regard, SUHAKAM reiterates that all parties to an armed conflict are bound by international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law. These legal frameworks impose clear obligations on States and armed actors to always distinguish between civilians and combatants, to refrain from attacks on civilian infrastructure, and to ensure that any use of force complies with the principles of necessity, proportionality, and precaution.

SUHAKAM is particularly concerned by reports of civilian casualties and the risk of further harm to vulnerable populations, including women and children, as hostilities intensify. Armed conflict inevitably places civilians at the greatest risk, disrupts access to essential services, and exacerbates humanitarian suffering.

SUHAKAM therefore calls on all parties involved to:

1. Immediately cease actions that endanger civilian lives and civilian infrastructure;
2. Respect and comply fully with international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and civilian objects;
3. Exercise maximum restraint and prioritise diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation of the conflict; and
4. Ensure accountability for violations of international law, including attacks that may constitute war crimes.

As for the international intervention, SUHAKAM calls for the following actions:

1. The UN Security Council may promptly adopt a resolution to stop and address the war between the United States and Israel with Iran, as it is contrary to international law and the UN Charter, particularly Articles 2(4) and 51;
2. If the United States prevents the Security Council from acting to restore international peace and security, the UN General Assembly may convene under the “Uniting for Peace” resolution to address and stop the war between the United States and Israel with Iran; and
3. The General Assembly may recommend that its Member States impose arms and trade embargoes on all the parties to armed conflict.

At a time of escalating global tensions, SUHAKAM stresses that lasting peace and security can only be achieved through dialogue, diplomacy and respect for international law. The international community must also play a constructive role in supporting de-escalation efforts and safeguarding the fundamental rights and dignity of all affected populations.

SUHAKAM stands in solidarity with all civilians affected by the conflict and reiterates that the protection of human life and human dignity must remain the foremost priority in any situation of armed conflict.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

7 March 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (28 FEBRUARY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) views with serious concern recent remarks made by Members of Parliament which have denigrated certain groups of individuals through unfounded and scientifically unsubstantiated claims, including characterising persons of diverse sexual identity and sexual orientation as deviant cults and suggesting that work-related stress may contribute to an individual’s sexual identity or sexual orientation. SUHAKAM considers such statements to be inappropriate, misleading and unethical. The propagation of harmful stereotypes and misinformation risks deepening prejudice, normalising discrimination, and may ultimately expose affected individuals to stigma, harm and threats to their safety and wellbeing.

It is unbecoming of Members of Parliament representing the rakyat, or holders of important positions in the Cabinet, to continue to spew toxic language in the legislative house. Parliament must remain a forum of principled debate, guided by respect for human dignity and constitutional values. SUHAKAM emphasises that all individuals, regardless their sexual identity or sexual orientation, are entitled to be treated with dignity and respect.

Fundamental liberties are the cornerstone of Malaysia’s constitutional framework. Article 5 of the Federal Constitution provides for the right to personal liberty, whilst Article 8 guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the law. As lawmakers, Members of Parliament must adhere to Article 8 of the Federal Constitution, which upholds equality before the law. Article 8 clearly prohibits discrimination based on gender and this constitutional commitment is reinforced by Malaysia’s ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) in 1995. CEDAW and the Federal Constitution call for non-discrimination that recognises intersecting layers of oppression and vulnerability, rather than reducing individuals merely to facets of their identity, orientation, or background.

Public discourse, particularly within Parliament, must reflect this constitutional and international commitment to equality and dignity. SUHAKAM further emphasises that statements made by public officials, particularly in official forums such as Parliament, must be responsible, cautious, and grounded in accurate information, while reflecting respect for human rights principles. Statements that lack scientific clarity or that may promote prejudice can significantly shape negative public attitudes and contribute to a culture of discrimination.

SUHAKAM remains committed to promoting the understanding that human rights apply to all, in line with the spirit of the Federal Constitution and universal human rights principles. In this regard, SUHAKAM stands ready to conduct capacity-building initiatives with the Parliament of Malaysia on human rights principles and constitutional obligations, towards fostering a more informed and responsible lawmaking institution.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

28 February 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (21 FEBRUARY 2026) – The Children’s Commissioners have taken note of a viral social media post shared on 19 February 2026 by a father, concerning the alleged sexual assault of his seven-year-old son by an unknown individual in a mosque toilet while attending congregational prayers.

The Children’s Commissioners are deeply disturbed by this incident and empathise with the pain, anger, and distress experienced by the child and his family. We are informed that the matter is currently under police investigation, and we commend the Royal Malaysia Police for their prompt action. The Children’s Commissioners hope that the investigation will be conducted thoroughly and that the perpetrator will be brought to justice under the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017.

This incident is a stark reminder that no place can be presumed entirely safe for children if adequate supervision and safeguards are not in place, including places of worship. Child sexual offenders may exploit moments when children are left unattended, regardless of location.

As families gather during the festive period of Chinese New Year and the holy month of Ramadan, parents and caregivers are urged to exercise heightened vigilance, especially in crowded public spaces and communal facilities. Children should be accompanied at all times, particularly when using restrooms or moving away from main congregation areas.

The Children’s Commissioners also call upon administrators of places of worship, including mosque committees, to strengthen child-safety measures. This includes ensuring that CCTV systems are installed and fully operational in appropriate areas, and that regular safety reminders are delivered by religious leaders to congregants.

We commend mosques that have introduced supervised childcare arrangements during tarawih prayers and encourage the expansion of such initiatives nationwide as a proactive child-protection measure.

Protecting children is a shared responsibility that requires constant awareness, collective effort, and zero tolerance for abuse.

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Dr Farah Nini Dusuki

Chief Children’s Commissioner

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

21 February 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (16 FEBRUARY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its concern over recent developments regarding the establishment of a special committee to investigate allegations involving the Chief Commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), following reports published by Bloomberg on 12 February 2026.

SUHAKAM does not take a position on the substance of the allegations. Nevertheless, we emphasise that corruption, as well as any perception that it is not addressed with seriousness and accountability carries profound negative human rights consequences. It undermines equality before the law, weakens access to justice, diverts public resources away from essential services, and disproportionately affects vulnerable and marginalised communities. The integrity, independence and credibility of anti-corruption institutions are therefore indispensable to the protection and realisation of human rights.

It cannot be denied that corruption is rampant in this country and is cancerous. Disgracefully, even high level ex-political leaders have been hauled to Court, convicted and sentenced to long terms of imprisonment. The sad truth is that – and this is of great concern to SUHAKAM, a body entrusted to promote and defend human rights – the higher the level of corruption that prevails in our society, the more it undermines the human rights of the citizens. In the battle against corruption, it is imperative that those entrusted to combat this evil practice must not only be beyond any suspicion of wrongdoing but must be perceived to be whiter than white.

Whilst the establishment of a special investigation committee (or task force) is acknowledged, concerns arise where such a body lacks clear statutory authority and necessary investigative powers. An inquiry that does not have the power to compel the attendance of witnesses, require the production of documents, or otherwise secure relevant evidence risks being viewed as limited in scope and effectiveness. In matters of significant public interest, these limitations may erode public confidence in both the investigative process and its outcome.

In light of this, SUHAKAM calls for the establishment of a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) under the Commissions of Enquiry Act 1950 (Act 119), rather than a task force without coercive powers. An RCI is vested with the authority to summon witnesses, examine them under oath, and compel the production of documents. Such powers are essential to ensure a thorough, independent and transparent examination of all relevant allegations. The scope of the inquiry must also be comprehensive. Investigations should not be confined to a narrow set of issues but should encompass all serious allegations that have entered the public domain, including those relating to alleged share ownership and reported allegations of collusion. A fragmented or selective approach risks creating perceptions of partiality and undermining the credibility of the process.

Institutional independence is equally critical. The composition of any investigative body must avoid actual or perceived conflicts of interest. Public confidence depends not only on the fairness of the process, but also on its appearance of fairness. Clear separation between investigative and prosecutorial functions, together with safeguards against undue influence, are fundamental principles of natural justice. In this respect, SUHAKAM is of the view that the proposed investigative body should not be chaired by the Attorney General. Instead, it should be led by an independent and respected retired Senior Judge, such as Yang Amat Berbahagia Tun Tengku Maimun binti Tuan Mat, who is widely recognised for her judicial integrity. The membership of the investigative body should also be broadened to include a respected representative from Civil Society Organisations (CSO) in order to enhance credibility, transparency and public trust in the process.

SUHAKAM further emphasises that appropriate interim administrative measures may be necessary to safeguard the integrity and credibility of the investigation. Such measures should not be perceived to be punitive in nature but are intended to preserve public confidence and ensure that the inquiry proceeds independently and without interference, pending its conclusion. In this regard, SUHAKAM supports the call for Tan Sri Azam Baki to be placed on garden leave while the RCI carries out its investigation, as this would help prevent any real or perceived influence over the investigative process.

Transparency remains a cornerstone of democratic governance and an essential component of the rule of law. The public should be informed of the mandate, powers and progress of the inquiry, subject to legitimate confidentiality considerations. Open and accountable processes strengthen institutions and reinforce public trust.

Malaysia’s commitment to combating corruption must be aligned with its human rights obligations. Where allegations involve those entrusted with enforcing anti-corruption laws, the response must be robust, independent and beyond reproach.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

16 February 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (11 FEBRUARY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its concern over the recent arrest of 20 individuals in connection with police action relating to the planned rally organised by Gerakan Anti Rumah Anutan Haram (GARAH) on 7 February 2026.

SUHAKAM reiterates that the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are fundamental liberties guaranteed under the Federal Constitution and recognised under international human rights law. At the same time, these rights are not absolute and must be exercised responsibly, with due regard to the inherent dignity, equality and rights of all persons. They must not be misused to promote hatred, racism, discrimination or hostility against any group.

Peaceful assembly remains a legitimate democratic space to raise concerns and advocate for change when conducted in a manner consistent with human rights principles, including non-discrimination, equality before the law and respect for diversity. In this regard, international standards, including the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) and Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), protect the right to manifest religion, including the establishment and protection of places of worship, and require States to prevent both direct and indirect discrimination, including where attacks on religious identity disproportionately affect ethnic or minority groups. While freedom of speech is generally protected, advocacy that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility, or violence is prohibited under international law, specifically Article 19(3) and Article 20(2) of the ICCPR.

In this context, SUHAKAM emphasises that allegations involving hate speech, racist conduct or incitement to discrimination should be addressed firmly and in accordance with the law, guided by due process and applicable human rights standards. Constitutional freedoms cannot be invoked to justify conduct that undermines the rights, safety and dignity of others.

At the same time, SUHAKAM notes that the Peaceful Assembly Act (PAA) 2012 places responsibilities on the authorities, including the police, to manage assemblies in a lawful, proportionate and facilitative manner. Any enforcement action taken should be grounded in clear legal authority, respect due process, and be appropriate to the circumstances.

SUHAKAM is closely monitoring developments surrounding this incident, including the legal basis and circumstances of enforcement actions taken, to ensure that all responses — by both organisers and authorities — remain consistent with constitutional guarantees, the rule of law, the PAA 2012, and Malaysia’s international human rights obligations.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

11 February 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (29 JANUARY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the Concluding Remarks of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC) following Malaysia’s recent review under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. SUHAKAM notes the Committee’s recognition of Malaysia’s progress in several areas, while underscoring that persistent gaps continue to impede the full realisation of children’s rights and require urgent, coordinated and time-bound action.

SUHAKAM commends the Government for positive measures acknowledged by the CRC, including improvements in maternal and child health outcomes, expanded preventive interventions, and institutional efforts to strengthen child-related policies and services. SUHAKAM also notes the constructive engagement demonstrated by the Government during the review process, reflecting an openness to dialogue and reform. These developments represent important steps forward. However, as emphasised by the CRC, progress remains uneven and must be consolidated through structural and legislative reforms to ensure that no child is left behind.

In line with its long-standing positions and the Committee’s concluding remarks, SUHAKAM highlights six critical and priority actions requiring immediate attention:

• Withdrawal of Reservations

SUHAKAM reiterates its constant call for the withdrawal of Malaysia’s remaining reservations to the Convention. Their continued maintenance is no longer consistent with Malaysia’s legal and institutional maturity. SUHAKAM urges the Government to expedite and meaningfully conclude the review process initiated in 2017, in line with the Committee’s clear one-year timeframe.

• Harmonisation of Domestic Laws

SUHAKAM calls for the acceleration of law reform to ensure full harmonisation of domestic legislation with the Convention and its General Comments. This must be supported by a coordinated national mechanism with clear leadership, accountability and timelines, prioritising General Comment No. 24 and evidence-based policy development.

• Child Protection and the Child Justice System

SUHAKAM emphasises the need to strengthen child protection systems, including a robust and rights-based approach to alternative care, ensuring that institutionalisation is used strictly as a measure of last resort. SUHAKAM reiterates for the urgent need for a Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Institutional Care for Children to uncover the complexities of the different authorities managing the insitutions in order to eliminate the systemic issues confronting children in such care and to identify the root causes of the lack of monitoring and supervision of these institutions. The child justice system must be fully aligned with the Convention’s standards and supported by a transparent, professional and accountable child protection workforce.

• ⁠Refugee, Migrant and Undocumented Children

SUHAKAM reiterates its consistent position that refugee, migrant and undocumented children must not be excluded from protection frameworks. Concrete measures are required to include these children within national systems and to ensure access to essential services, including education and social protection. In this context, SUHAKAM highlights the need to progressively realise universal health coverage for all children, regardless of nationality or legal status, and to remove systemic barriers that result in deprivation. SUHAKAM further reiterates its call for the urgent implementation of non-custodial alternatives, the ending of immigration detention of children, and amendments to the Immigration Act to ensure compliance with the Convention’s standards.

• Fiscal Space and Child-Focused Budgeting

As Malaysia advances towards high-income status amid rapid demographic change, SUHAKAM stresses that adequate and sustainable investment in children remains a core human rights obligation. SUHAKAM calls for child-targeted and gender-responsive budgeting, systematic tracking of child-related expenditure, and analysis of investment adequacy against child outcomes to ensure that resource allocation translates into tangible improvements in children’s well-being.

• ⁠Reporting under the Optional Protocols and the CRPD

SUHAKAM urges the Government to expedite the submission of overdue reports under the Optional Protocols, including the Optional Protocol on the involvement of children in armed conflict (OPAC). This is essential to Malaysia’s commitment to international accountability and full compliance with its treaty obligations, and should be undertaken in a manner that reflects the cross-cutting and indivisible human rights principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, read together with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), thereby ensuring that gender equality and the rights of children with disabilities are fully and systematically addressed.

SUHAKAM further affirms that since the legal incorporation of the Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC) under SUHAKAM, the OCC has been funded solely through SUHAKAM’s existing budget, without any additional allocation from the Government. This institutional arrangement is important in safeguarding the independence of the OCC, as SUHAKAM is Malaysia’s National Human Rights Institution accredited with ‘A’ status under the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) and operating in accordance with the Paris Principles. SUHAKAM also acknowledges that the CRC has raised questions regarding the adequacy and sustainability of funding for the OCC. While the current arrangement reflects SUHAKAM’s commitment to strengthening oversight, monitoring, and advocacy for children’s rights, the existing level of funding is not adequate to support the expanded scope of responsibilities arising from the OCC’s statutory mandate. As SUHAKAM continues to expand its presence nationwide and children have become a key demographic requiring focused and sustained engagement, the effective discharge of the OCC’s functions necessitates commensurate and sustainable resourcing.

SUHAKAM recognises the progress achieved by the Government while emphasising that sustained political will and decisive action are required to fully implement the CRC’s recommendations. SUHAKAM remains committed to constructive engagement with the Government, Parliament and all stakeholders to ensure that children’s rights are fully respected, protected and fulfilled in Malaysia.                           

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
29 January 2026