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TOWARDS THE REALISATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS FOR ALL

14 JAN 2022

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) is an independent Commission, established by the Malaysian Parliament under the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 (Act 597), for the promotion and protection of human rights in Malaysia. Section 2 of Act 597 defines “human rights” as the fundamental liberties enshrined in Part II of the Federal Constitution. Additionally, the Act 597 authorises SUHAKAM to give regard the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in undertaking its functions, so long as it is not inconsistent with the Federal Constitution of Malaysia. Towards this, SUHAKAM is mandated by Section 4 (1) of Act 597 to promote awareness of, and provide education in relation to human rights;  to advise and assist the Government in formulating legislation and administrative directives and procedures and recommend the necessary measures to be taken; to recommend to the Government with regard to the subscription or accession of treaties and other international instruments in the field of human rights; and to inquire into complaints regarding infringements of human rights.

In the course of fulfilling its duties for over 20 years, it is apparent to SUHAKAM that its capacity and effectiveness in performing its roles and functions are contingent upon its independence and ability to act conscientiously. SUHAKAM takes great effort to ensure this, not only to meet the requirements as stated in the Paris Principles[1], but more importantly, to maintain its credibility amongst the Malaysian public as an institution that performs its duties impartially and without fear or favour in order to promote and protect human rights in Malaysia. As such, while SUHAKAM takes serious consideration of all views provided by stakeholders from different extremes and of differing aspirations, SUHAKAM’s decisions and stances on human rights are made independently and in line with the parameters given by Act 597. Additionally, guided by Section 7(4) of Act 597, SUHAKAM endeavours, as far possible, to make all decisions by consensus of its members.

In spite of the above, there appears to be continued misunderstanding by certain quarters, about SUHAKAM’s status, roles, and functions. These misconceptions have become more apparent recently based on reactions from certain individuals and groups following SUHAKAM’s bold decision to take up issues that may be seen by some as “controversial” and not in keeping with the Malaysian social context. Some have even alleged that SUHAKAM only champions perverse issues while ignoring core human rights issues that affect the lives of grassroot communities.

In light of these, and consistent with SUHAKAM’s motto “Human Rights for All”, SUHAKAM wishes to correct some of the misconceptions about SUHAKAM and its way of work towards the promotion and protection of human rights in Malaysia:

“SUHAKAM is western-centric”

Undeniably, SUHAKAM has had its fair share of criticisms from different stakeholders in the country due to their differing perceptions and expectations of SUHAKAM. Some still hold on to the view that SUHAKAM has not lived up to their expectations while others continue to see SUHAKAM as being ‘pro-NGO’ or an institution that blindly follows western concepts due to its many statements and stances that were critical of the authorities or seen as challenging cultural relativism.

In reality, SUHAKAM’s positions take into consideration the local contexts and are not made in silo.

Since the very beginning of its inception, SUHAKAM has built in its way of work, platforms for stakeholders’ consultations on which, individuals and groups with interest are invited to provide their concerns and views on arising human rights issues as well as expectations of changes that need to be made in the country to ensure meaningful human rights progress. In conducting these consultations, SUHAKAM goes to great lengths to ensure that local individuals and groups, including CSOs of diverse backgrounds are engaged, aside from its regional and international partners. Some of the key stakeholders engaged by SUHAKAM include religious groups, women, children, indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities and many more. One example is the current initiative by SUHAKAM to improve the conditions of places of detention in Malaysia to ensure that such places meet, among others, the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners. Aside from persons in custody, SUHAKAM made sure that it consulted the relevant Ministries, agencies and officers involved from the start of the initiative. As a result, SUHAKAM’s recommendations to the Government on this matter include not only improvements that could better protect the rights of persons in custody, but also the rights of officers to have safe, clean and healthy working environment.

Another example is SUHAKAM’s promotion work to combat torture. SUHAKAM initiated the formation, and is currently part of a coalition known as the ACT4CAT Coalition[2]. Other than SUHAKAM, members of the Coalition include the Bar Council, Suara Rakyat Malaysia (SUARAM), Amnesty International (AI), Lawyers for Liberty (LFL), Anti-Death Penalty Asia Network (ADPAN). Members of the coalition works together to advocate for Malaysia’s ratification of the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT)[3]. The Coalition actively seeks other CSOs to join the initiative including faith-based organisations.  In 2019, SUHAKAM hosted a regional dialogue on UNCAT which aimed to explore best practices of other States towards the accession and implementation of UNCAT at the domestic level. In getting wider views and perspectives on this issue, SUHAKAM invited local representatives from government agencies, civil society organisations, medical practitioners, NHRIs, academics to the dialogue to ensure the domestic context is considered.

Another example is in 2016, SUHAKAM embarked on a study on discrimination against transgender persons based in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor relating to their rights to employment, healthcare, education, housing and dignity. Discussions were conducted with various groups including faith-based and human rights organisations, as well as individuals who work with them. The report was then published in March 2019 and one of the recommendations is for this community to be able to enjoy full range of human rights without exception and discrimination.

The above are consultation examples on a plethora of human rights issues carried out by SUHAKAM and are made evident in SUHAKAM’s annual reports since year 2000. The consultations conducted by SUHAKAM ensure that local views and contexts form part of the key considerations.

“SUHAKAM disrespects the Federal Constitution”

SUHAKAM abides by its founding legislation, Act 597, in undertaking its functions which includes the promotion and protection of human rights as defined in Part II of the Federal Constitution, as well as guided by the UDHR. Accordingly, SUHAKAM strives to reflect this in all its work.

Be that as it may, Section 4(1)(b) of Act 597 provides that SUHAKAM is also responsible “to advise and assist the Government in formulating legislation and administrative directives and procedures and recommend the necessary measures to be taken”. Based on this provision, SUHAKAM has persistently provided recommendations to the government on improvements to domestic laws to ensure that they attain the universally accepted common standard of achievement for all peoples set forth in the UDHR. Moreover, SUHAKAM has been consulted and invited by various Ministries to be in various law review committees to ensure that the human rights perspective is considered in the formulation and review of laws. Some of them include the Special Project Team on the Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill (2019), Anti-Discrimination against Women Bill, Special Committee on alternatives to mandatory death penalty. SUHAKAM is involved in many other law review committees set up by the Government. 

In this respect, the Government of Malaysia has demonstrated strong commitment to make the necessary changes; for example, the formulation and review of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 (Act 736) and abolition of the Internal Security Act 1960 (Act 82). Even the supreme law of the land, the Federal Constitution of Malaysia was amended in July 2001 to include the term “gender” as a basis for non-discrimination, in line with Malaysia’s international commitment.

SUHAKAM will continue to render its assistance to the government in reforming our domestic laws to reflect the Country’s international human rights commitment, including rights categorised as non-derogable.

“SUHAKAM’s positions contradict religious teachings and the Malaysian culture”

SUHAKAM respects freedom of religion as it itself is a human right. SUHAKAM also respects that Islam is the religion of the Federation, and that other religions may be practised in peace and harmony in any part of the Federation, as provided by Article 3(1) of the Federal Constitution of Malaysia.

SUHAKAM is disturbed by recent allegations that some of its positions were seen as subtle attacks on certain faith(s). SUHAKAM reiterates that in forming its stances, it is guided by the Federal Constitution of Malaysia as well as the UDHR as allowed by Act 597.

SUHAKAM is of the view that all religions demand for justice, equality and dignity, which also form the cornerstones of the Federal Constitution of Malaysia as well as international human rights standards. On the basis of the supremacy of the Federal Constitution of Malaysia, the practice of religion must yield to the fundamental human rights protections afforded by the Constitution. In addition, the Federal Constitution makes clear in Article 75 of Part VI that “‘If any State law is inconsistent with a federal law, the federal law shall prevail and the State law shall, to the extent of the inconsistency, be void.”

“SUHAKAM only champions perverse matters and ignores real grassroot issues”

SUHAKAM underscores that this assumption is unfounded and blatantly false. SUHAKAM has worked on a wide range of human rights issues involving both economic, social, cultural rights as well as civil and political rights themes. In terms of complaints received for instance, between 2017-2021, SUHAKAM received a total of 4,510 complaints from all over Malaysia. Based on the complaints received, SUHAKAM investigated issues such as the right to a standard of living, work, education, health, social security, citizenship, racial discrimination, freedom of movement, expression, assembly, association, religion and many more. SUHAKAM also reaches out to communities through its Meet-the-People Session (SUHAKAM Bersama Masyarakat) to, among others, provide a platform for the local communities to bring to SUHAKAM’s attention existing grassroot human rights issues affecting their lives.

In addressing those thematic issues, and consistent with Article 8(1) and (2) of the Federal Constitution of Malaysia, SUHAKAM takes consideration of the lived realities of vulnerable groups and grassroot communities. They include women, children, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, refugees, migrants, and many others. Moreover, SUHAKAM upholds the position that all human beings, irrespective of their backgrounds, are born free and equal in worth, dignity and rights.

SUHAKAM’s current Five-Year Strategic Plan 2021-2025 – that is publicly accessible in its website – shows the extensive human rights focus areas being addressed by SUHAKAM including, among others, advancing economic, social and cultural rights especially for vulnerable groups, combating xenophobia, racism and racial discrimination, and enhancing the realisation of children’s rights. This, together with the fact that SUHAKAM’s annual reports – that record the breadth of human rights themes addressed and vulnerable groups engaged by SUHAKAM – debunks this baseless allegation.  

SUHAKAM will continue to address arising human rights issues in Malaysia without fear or favour. This will include addressing human rights matters that may be seen as unpopular by certain quarters. In addition, SUHAKAM will, if the need arises, speak on behalf of any oppressed and vulnerable communities in the country, who may, otherwise, be rendered voiceless due to political and social pressure. In this regard, SUHAKAM also underscores the need for its annual report to be debated by Parliament so that all human rights issues affecting vulnerable groups in Malaysia can be addressed effectively by the Government.

SUHAKAM has consistently adopted independent and fair positions in addressing human rights issues and while its statements are sometimes critical on some policies and actions which are inconsistent with the international human rights principles and norms, SUHAKAM’s positions are always constructive in character and impelled by the need to encourage the country to move forward towards becoming a nation with exemplary human rights standards and performance.


[1] Principles relating to the Status of National Institutions (The Paris Principles) was adopted by General Assembly resolution 48/134 of 20 December 1993 . The Paris Principles set out the minimum standards that NHRIs must meet in aspects of, among others, NHRIs’ legal standing, independence, powers, mandate, and resources to be considered as credible and  effective. In June 2021, SUHAKAM was reaccredited ‘A’ status by the Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) of the Global Alliance for National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) denoting that SUHAKAM fully complies with the Paris Principles. https://www.ohchr.org/en/professionalinterest/pages/statusofnationalinstitutions.aspx

[2] See more information about the ACT4CAT Coalition and its activities at https://www.facebook.com/ACT4CAT/

[3] The UNCAT which was adopted by the UN General Assembly on 10 December 1984, aims to prevent torture and other acts of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment; https://www.ohchr.org/en/professionalinterest/pages/cat.aspx

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Press Statement No. 1-2022 (OCC)_CC Saddened by Setbacks Faced by Children in Accessing School

PRESS STATEMENT

KUALA LUMPUR (13 JANUARY 2022)   –   The Children’s Commissioner (CC), Prof. Dato’ Noor Aziah Mohd Awal is saddened with the recent news report on January 10, 2022, which featured several students from Sekolah Kebangsaan Sibuga Besar in Sandakan crossing a dilapidated suspension bridge on their first day of school.

The report further affirms the CC’s discovery during a recent monitoring visit in Sandakan that children living in deeper remote areas and those without documentation face difficulties in accessing proper mainstream education. The CC commends the action of the Sandakan Town Council and the Implementation Coordination Unit, Prime Minister’s Department, for their coordinated and swift plans to assess the bridge for repair or reconstruction and hopes that such efforts will be expedited further. With the announced closure of the bridge, the CC also hopes that alternative measures, such as the provision of free-of-charge boats, will be implemented to assist children in attending schools. The CC further hopes that the Government, through Public Works Department, will continually inspect and ensure roads and bridges, infrastructure and public facilities under its purview and functions are safe, in good working condition and well-maintained at all times, as such facilities involve public and children’s lives and safety. Assessment and reconstruction efforts should not only be a reactive measure but must be proactive.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted children’s learning and well-being for almost two years and schools were closed during the enforcement of the Movement Control Order (MCO). With the reopening of schools, the CC implores for all relevant government agencies such as the Department of Education to ensure that all children, especially in rural areas are able to access education, by providing them with the necessary aids including transportation and an enabling school environment which ensures their safety and security.

The right of children to education is internationally recognised under the Article 28(1) of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). Fundamental to this right is the need under Article 28(1)(e) for States to implement measures that encourage regular attendance in school and to decrease drop-out rates. The importance of education is further in emphasised in Goal 4 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which highlights the need for States to ensure equitable education for all.  While Malaysia has continued to maintain its reservation to the Article 28(1)(a) of the CRC on the obligation of States to provide free and compulsory primary education, access to education should nonetheless be a priority in its pursuit of accelerated development.  

The CC wishes to reiterate the need for the Government to increase its allocations for improving children’s access to education. Transparent reporting on the use of the budget for that purpose must also be available. Providing schools alone would not suffice. Access to schools should also be made a priority. With the two, the CC is confident that Malaysia will be able to further align itself towards achieving the goals of both the CRC and the SDGs.

-END-

Professor Dato’ Noor Aziah Hj. Mohd Awal, Children’s Commissioner

13 January 2022

Media queries: Contact Mrs. Norashikin Hamzah at 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 or shikin@suhakam.org.my

KENYATAAN MEDIA

KUALA LUMPUR (13 JANUARI 2022)   –   Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak (PKK), Prof Dato’ Noor Aziah Mohd Awal menzahirkan dukacita dengan laporan akhbar pada 10 Januari 2022 yang memaparkan beberapa pelajar dari Sekolah Kebangsaan Sibuga Besar di Sandakan yang terpaksa menggunakan jambatan usang pada hari pertama persekolahan.

Laporan ini mengesahkan lagi dapatan PKK semasa lawatan pemantauan baru-baru ini di Sandakan bahawa kanak-kanak yang tinggal di kawasan pedalaman dan mereka yang tidak berdokumen, menghadapi kekangan akses kepada pendidikan arus perdana yang baik. PKK menyambut baik tindakan Majlis Perbandaran Sandakan dan Unit Penyelarasan Pelaksanaan, Jabatan Perdana Menteri, dalam kerjasama dan kepantasan mereka membuat penilaian bagi pembaikan atau pembinaan semula jambatan tersebut dan diharapkan usaha ini dapat dipercepatkan lagi. Dengan pengumuman penutupan jambatan tersebut, PKK berharap langkah alternatif seperti penyediaan bot secara percuma boleh dilaksanakan untuk membantu kanak-kanak ke sekolah. PKK juga berharap agar Kerajaan, melalui Jabatan Kerja Raya, akan terus memeriksa dan memastikan jalan raya, jambatan, infrakstruktur atau lain-lain kemudahan awam di bawah bidang kuasa dan fungsinya berada dalam keadaan yang baik dan disenggara secara berterusan. Usaha penilaian dan pembinaan semula perlu dilakukan secara proaktif dan bukan sahaja secara reaktif.

Wabak COVID-19 telah memberi impak kepada pembelajaran dan kesejahteraan kanak-kanak selama hampir dua tahun dan sekolah ditutup sepanjang pelaksanaan Perintah Kawalan Pergerakan (PKP). Dengan pembukaan sekolah, PKK merayu semua agensi kerajaan yang terlibat seperti Jabatan Pendidikan untuk memastikan semua kanak-kanak, terutamanya mereka di kawasan pedalaman mendapat akses pendidikan dan memastikan mereka disediakan dengan bantuan seperti pengangkutan dan persekitaran sekolah yang menjamin keselamatan dan kesejahteraan mereka.

Hak kepada pendidikan diiktiraf di peringkat antarabangsa di bawah Perkara 28(1) Konvensyen Mengenai Hak Kanak-Kanak (CRC). Asas kepada hak ini adalah keperluan di bawah Perkara 28(1)(e) untuk Negara pihak melaksanakan langkah-langkah yang mendorong kehadiran secara tetap ke sekolah dan menurunkan kadar keciciran. Matlamat 4 Pembangunan Lestari (SDG) Pertubuhan Bangsa-Bangsa Bersatu menekankan kepentingan pendidikan dan Negara pihak perlu memastikan Pendidikan yang saksama untuk semua. Walaupun Malaysia masih mengekalkan reservasi kepada Perkara 28(1)(a) mengenai tanggungjawab untuk menyediakan pendidikan rendah secara percuma, akses kepada pendidikan seharusnya menjadi keutamaan ke arah pembangunan yang semakin pesat.

PKK menekankan keperluan untuk Kerajaan menambah peruntukan bagi menambah baik akses kanak-kanak kepada pendidikan. Pelaporan yang telus mengenai penggunaan bajet untuk tujuan ini perlu disediakan. Pembinaan sekolah semata-mata adalah tidak mencukupi. Akses kepada pendidikan perlu diutamakan. Dengan pelaksanaan kedua-duanya, PKK yakin Malaysia dapat menjajarkan hala tujunya untuk mencapai matlamat-matlamat CRC dan SDGs.

-TAMAT-

Professor Dato’ Noor Aziah Hj. Mohd Awal, Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak

13 Januari 2022

Pertanyaan Media: Sila hubungi Pn. Norashikin Hamzah melalui 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 atau shikin@suhakam.org.my

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Press Statement No. 15-2021 (OCC)_CC Lauds the Decision of the Court of Appeal on the Government’s Motion for Stay in the Suriani Kempe Case

PRESS STATEMENT

KUALA LUMPUR (24 DECEMBER 2021)   –   The Children’s Commissioner, Prof. Dato’ Noor Aziah Mohd Awal, lauds the decision of the Court of Appeal in the Ketua Pengarah Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara & 2 Ors v Suriani Kempe & 6 Ors (Court of Appeal, Civil Appeal No. W-01(NCvC)(A)-531-09/2021), in dismissing the Government’s motion for a stay in the execution of the High Court decision. Following this, the Government should ensure that the National Registration Department complies with the recent ruling by issuing the children with all relevant documents, giving effect to their citizenship forthwith whilst the proposed amendment is still in progress.

Due to their status as non-citizens, these children have been experiencing difficulties in accessing public education and health services and their situation is worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic where they face difficulties entering the country to reunite with family members based locally due to documentation issues. These are instances of discrimination at the expense of innocent children. The Court of Appeal’s decision is welcome by many, especially these children as well as civil society organisations, and highlight the important role played by Courts as a key institution for check and balance, to uphold the best interest of children, consistent with Malaysia’s international obligations under Article 3 of the Convention the Rights of the Child (CRC).

On 16th December 2021, the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Parliament and Law), in his written reply to a question in Parliament stated that the Government has formed a committee to conduct a 6-month study on proposed amendments to Article 14(1)(b) of the Federal Constitution. The CC welcomes this decision as such amendments would remove any ambiguity on the machinations of Article 14(1)(b) of the Federal Constitution. However, CC is of the opinion that 6 months is too long and urges for a swift and judicious resolution to this long-standing issue. On the heels of these developments, a proper consultation with relevant groups is needed and CC hopes that a constitutional amendment will be taken to the next Parliament session

CC wishes to highlight this constitutional amendment concerning children’s right to nationality would enable Malaysia to comply with the non-discrimination principle as enunciated in the Article 2 of CRC and Article 1 of the Convention of the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and serve the purpose of guaranteeing Malaysian women the exercise and equal enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms.

-END-

Professor Dato’ Noor Aziah Hj. Mohd Awal, Children’s Commissioner

24 December 2021

Media queries: Contact Mrs. Norashikin Hamzah at 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 or shikin@suhakam.org.my

KENYATAAN MEDIA

KUALA LUMPUR (24 DISEMBER 2021)   –   Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak (PKK), Prof. Dato’ Noor Aziah Mohd Awal, menyambut baik keputusan Mahkamah Rayuan dalam Ketua Pengarah Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara & 2 Lagi v Suriani Kempe & 6 Lagi (Mahkamah Rayuan, Rayuan Sivil No. W-01(NCvC)(A)-531-09/2021), menolak usul Kerajaan untuk penggantungan pelaksanaan keputusan Mahkamah Tinggi. Berikutan keputusan ini, pihak Kerajaan perlu memastikan Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara segera mengeluarkan dokumen-dokumen yang perlu untuk mendaftarkan kanak-kanak berkenaan sebagai warganegara sementara syor pindaan masih berjalan.

Oleh kerana status mereka bukan warganegara, kanak-kanak ini mengalami kesukaran dalam mendapat akses kepada perkhidmatan kesihatan dan pendidikan awam dan situasi ini diburukkan lagi oleh pandemic COVID-19 kerana mereka sukar untuk memasuki negara untuk bertemu ahli keluarga yang berada di dalam negara kerana isu-isu dokumentasi. Ini merupakan beberapa keadaan yang melibatkan diskriminasi terhadap kanak-kanak yang tidak bersalah. Sehubungan itu, keputusan Mahkamah Rayuan ini diterima baik oleh banyak pihak, terutamanya kanak-kanak dan organisasi-organisasi yang memperjuangkan hak asasi, ini pentingnya peranan penting mahkamah sebagai institusi semak dan imbang dalam menegakkan kepentingan kanak-kanak, bertepatan dengan obligasi antarabangsa Malaysia di bawah Perkara 3 Konvensyen Mengenai Hak Kanak-Kanak.

Pada 16 Disember 2021, Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Parliamen dan Undang-Undang), dalam jawapan kepada soalan di Parlimen, telah menjelaskan bahawa penubuhan sebuah jawatankuasa khas untuk melaksanakan kajian selama 6 bulan berkaitan pindaan kepada Perkara 14(1)(b) Perlembagaan Persekutuan. PKK menyambut baik keputusan ini kerana ia dapat menjelaskan kesamaran dalam interpretasi Perkara 14(1)(b) Perlembagaan Persekutuan. Namun begitu, PKK berpendapat bahawa tempoh 6 bulan adalah terlalu lama dan berharap agar penyelesaian segara dan adil dapat dibuat kepada isu yang sudah tertangguh sekian lama ini. Dalam perkembangan ini, PKK berharap pindaan kepada Perlembagaan Persekutuan dapat dibawa ke sesi Parliamen yang seterusnya.

PKK ingin menekankan bahawa pindaan kepada Perlembagaan berkaitan hak kerakyatan kanak-kanak akan menunjukkan pematuhan Malaysia kepada prinsip tiada diskriminasi selaras dengan Perkara 2 CRC dan Perkara 1 Konvensyen Penghapusan Semua Bentuk Diskrimnasi Terhadap Wanita (CEDAW) yang memberi jaminan kepada wanita Malaysia untuk menikmati dan mendapat hak dan kebebasan asasi.

-TAMAT-

Professor Dato’ Noor Aziah Hj. Mohd Awal, Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak

24 Disember 2021

Pertanyaan Media: Sila hubungi Pn. Norashikin Hamzah melalui 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 atau shikin@suhakam.org.my

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Press Statement No. 14-2021 (OCC)_The Death of a 5-year-old Boy due to Alleged Abuse

PRESS STATEMENT

KUALA LUMPUR (10 DECEMBER 2021)   –   The Children’s Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), Prof Dato’ Noor Aziah Mohd Awal (CC) is saddened by the recent death of a 5-year-old boy in Taman Nusa Bestari, Johor due to alleged abuse by his mother and stepfather.

It was reported that the couple who has two more children, an 8-year-old daughter and a 2-year-old son, had a prior case under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001 for child neglect and Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drug Act 1952 for drug abuse. The CC is puzzled as to why the 5-year-old boy and two other siblings were still in the couple’s care even though they have been charged for child abuse of their eldest daughter, and the case is still pending.

Pursuant to Section 18 of the Child Act 2001, any Protector, Assistant Protector, or police officer who is satisfied on reasonable grounds that a child is in need of care and protection, may take the child into temporary custody, unless the Protector, Assistant Protector, or police officer is satisfied that the taking of proceedings in relation to the child is undesirable in the best interests of the child; or the proceedings are about to be taken by some other person. Article 20(1) of the CRC also states that a child temporarily or permanently deprived of his or her family environment, or in whose own best interests cannot be allowed to remain in that environment, shall be entitled to special protection and assistance provided by the State. Therefore, it is the CC’s view that the children should have been removed and placed in a safer environment by any Protector, Assistant Protector, or police officer before they become victims or have the risk of becoming victims of the couple.

Child abuse and violence are of persisting global concern, including in Malaysia. Based on Berita Harian Online Newspaper dated 8 July 2021, JKM statistics reported that there were 2040 child abuse cases between January to April 2021. JKM   also presented its statistic to OCC on 8 April 2021 where it showed that biological mothers are reported to be the highest individuals responsible for child abuse, where it increased to 9.8% (148 cases) in 2020 compared to 2019. Therefore, the CC calls on JKM to take this matter seriously and adopt proper approaches and measures to curb the issues in ensuring that all children are protected from any forms of violence. The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (MWFCD) through the Children Division also is urged to take appropriate intervention as to whether JKM (Protector) had been negligent in its supervision and exercising its powers, as MWFCD is responsible for the provision of care, protection, and rehabilitation of children to ensure their well-being.

-END-

Professor Dato’ Noor Aziah Hj. Mohd Awal, Children’s Commissioner

10 December 2021

Media queries: Contact Mrs. Norashikin Hamzah at 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 or shikin@suhakam.org.my

KENYATAAN MEDIA

KUALA LUMPUR (10 DISEMBER 2021)   –   Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM), Prof Dato’ Noor Aziah Mohd Awal (CC) menzahirkan rasa sedih dengan kematian kanak-kanak lelaki berusia 5 tahun di Taman Nusa Bestari, Johor baru-baru yang didakwa telah didera oleh ibu kandung dan bapa tirinya.

Pasangan yang mempunyai dua anak lain iaitu seorang anak perempuan berusia 8 tahun dan seorang anak lelaki berusia 2 tahun dilaporkan mempunyai rekod lampau di bawah Seksyen 31(1)(a) Akta Kanak-Kanak 2001 kerana pengabaian kanak-kanak dan Seksyen 15(1)(a) Akta Dadah Berbahaya 1952 kerana penyalahgunaan dadah. Menjadi satu persoalan mengapa kanak-kanak berkenaan dibenarkan berada di bawah jagaan pasangan tersebut walaupun mereka telah didakwa atas kesalahan mendera anak perempuan sulung mereka dan kes itu masih belum selesai.

Menurut Seksyen 18 Akta Kanak-Kanak 2001, mana-mana pelindung, penolong pelindung, atau pegawai polis yang berpuas hati atas alasan munasabah bahawa kanak-kanak memerlukan penjagaan dan perlindungan, boleh membawa kanak-kanak itu ke dalam jagaan sementara, melainkan pelindung, penolong pelindung, atau pegawai polis berpuas hati bahawa pengambilan prosiding berhubung dengan kanak-kanak itu adalah tidak diingini demi kepentingan terbaik kanak-kanak itu; atau prosiding akan diambil oleh orang lain. Perkara 20(1) CRC juga menyatakan bahawa seseorang kanak-kanak yang dilucutkan secara sementara atau kekal dari persekitaran keluarganya, atau untuk kepentingan terbaiknya sendiri tidak boleh dibenarkan tinggal dalam persekitaran itu, berhak mendapat perlindungan dan bantuan khas yang disediakan oleh kerajaan. Oleh itu, CC berpandangan bahawa kanak-kanak itu sepatutnya telah dikeluarkan dan ditempatkan dalam persekitaran yang lebih selamat oleh mana-mana pelindung, penolong pelindung atau pegawai polis sebelum mereka menjadi mangsa atau mempunyai risiko menjadi mangsa pasangan itu.

Penderaan dan keganasan terhadap kanak-kanak adalah isu yang membimbangkan di seluruh dunia, termasuk di Malaysia. Berdasarkan laporan Berita Harian Online bertarikh 8 Julai 2021, statistik JKM melaporkan bahawa terdapat 2040 kes penderaan kanak-kanak berlaku antara Januari hingga April 2021. JKM turut membentangkan statistiknya kepada OCC pada 8 April 2021 yang menunjukkan bahawa ibu kandung merupakan individu paling tinggi yang bertanggungjawab terhadap penderaan kanak-kanak dan ia meningkat kepada 9.8% (148 kes) pada tahun 2020 berbanding 2019. Sehubungan itu, CC menyeru JKM untuk serius menangani perkara ini dan mengambil pendekatan dan langkah yang sewajarnya untuk membendung isu tersebut bagi memastikan semua kanak-kanak dilindungi daripada sebarang bentuk keganasan. Kementerian Pembangunan Wanita, Keluarga dan Masyarakat (KPWKM) melalui Bahagian Kanak-Kanak di JKM juga digesa untuk campur tangan dan menyiasat sama ada pelindung JKM telah cuai dalam penyeliaan dan menjalankan kuasanya, kerana KPWKM bertanggungjawab untuk menyediakan penjagaan, perlindungan, dan pemulihan kanak-kanak bagi menjamin kesejahteraan mereka.

-TAMAT-

Professor Dato’ Noor Aziah Hj. Mohd Awal, Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak

10 Disember 2021

Pertanyaan Media: Sila hubungi Pn. Norashikin Hamzah melalui 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 atau shikin@suhakam.org.my

PS

Press Statement No. 40-2021_Budget for SUHAKAM to Carry Out the Full Range of Its Core Function

PRESS STATEMENT

KUALA LUMPUR (1 DECEMBER 2021)   –   The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) underscores that the Parliament has a critical role in the promotion and protection of human rights. As such, SUHAKAM expresses support for Members of Parliament in raising matters that affect the rights of the people of Malaysia as well as on those that impact the effective delivery of SUHAKAM’s statutory functions.

In connection to the issue raised by Member of Parliament concerning SUHAKAM’s budget allocation during the Parliament sitting on 22 November 2021, SUHAKAM reiterates its call for the government to ensure that SUHAKAM receives adequate funding and afforded the necessary powers, to enable it to safely, independently and effectively promote and protect human rights in Malaysia. SUHAKAM had recently undergone the reaccreditation process by the Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) of the Global Alliance of the National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), in which the SCA reminded that adequate funding should, to a reasonable degree, ensure gradual and progressive realisation of the improvement of the institution’s operations and the fulfilment of its mandate. In addition, it also stated that where NHRIs has been designated with additional responsibilities by the State, additional financial resources should be provided to enable it to assume the responsibilities of discharging these functions. Aside from the fact that SUHAKAM currently must address a wider range and increasingly complex human rights issues in the country, based on subsection 5(2) of the SUHAKAM Act 1999 (Act 597), the government appointed a dedicated Children’s Commissioner since April 2019 as part of the reforms undertaken by the government in protecting the rights of children. Therefore, the Government should consequently provide SUHAKAM with all the necessary support.

With respect to enhancing its independence, SUHAKAM is working closely with the Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister’s Department towards amending the SUHAKAM Act 1999, among others, changes sought on SUHAKAM’s capacity as an independent NHRI as well as SUHAKAM’s Annual Report where the Section 21 of its enabling Act does not specifically mention that the Annual Report has to be debated in Parliament. SUHAKAM is of the view that it is crucial for Members of Parliament to critically discuss human right issues of public interest in Malaysia and propose possible solutions to these issues, especially since Putrajaya had pledged to prioritise human rights in its application and, subsequently, its election as a member to the Human Rights Council (HRC) under the auspices of the United Nations for the 2022-2024 term.

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

1 December 2021

Media queries: Contact Mrs. Norashikin Hamzah at 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 or shikin@suhakam.org.my

KENYATAAN MEDIA

KUALA LUMPUR (1 DISEMBER 2021)  –  Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) menegaskan bahawa Parlimen mempunyai peranan yang penting dalam promosi dan perlindungan hak asasi manusia. Oleh yang demikian, SUHAKAM ingin menyatakan sokongan kepada Ahli Parlimen yang mengetengahkan isu-isu yang memberi kesan kepada hak rakyat Malaysia termasuk apa jua yang memberikan impak kepada keberkesanan SUHAKAM dalam menjalankan fungsinya.

Berhubung isu yang dibangkitkan oleh Ahli Parlimen mengenai peruntukan belanjawan SUHAKAM semasa sidang Parlimen pada 22 November 2021, SUHAKAM mengulangi seruannya kepada Kerajaan untuk memastikan agar SUHAKAM menerima peruntukan yang mencukupi dan diberikan dengan kuasa-kuasa yang perlu untuk mempromosi dan melindungi hak asasi manusia di Malaysia secara selamat, bebas dan efektif. Baru-baru ini SUHAKAM telah menjalani proses reakreditasi oleh Jawatankuasa Kecil Akreditasi (SCA) Pakatan Global bagi Institusi Hak Asasi Manusia Kebangsaan (GANHRI), di mana SCA mengingatkan bahawa dana yang mencukupi seharusnya pada tahap yang munasabah, dapat memastikan penambahbaikan operasi institusi secara beransur-ansur dan progresif serta membolehkan ia memenuhi mandatnya. Turut dinyatakan bahawa NHRI yang telah diberikan tanggungjawab tambahan oleh Negara, perlu disediakan dengan sumber kewangan tambahan bagi membolehkan ia menjalankan tanggungjawab untuk memenuhi fungsi-fungsi ini. Selain daripada fakta bahawa SUHAKAM kini harus memberi perhatian kepada isu-isu yang lebih luas dan kompleks di negara ini, berasaskan subseksyen 5(2) Akta SUHAKAM 1999 (Akta 597), Kerajaan telah melantik Pesuruhjaya Kanak-kanak sejak April 2019 sebagai sebahagian daripada pembaharuan yang dilaksanakan oleh Kerajaan dalam melindungi hak kanak-kanak. Oleh yang demikian, Kerajaan seharusnya menyediakan segala sokongan yang diperlukan oleh SUHAKAM.

Dalam mempertingkatkan kebebasannya, SUHAKAM bekerjasama rapat dengan Bahagian Hal Ehwal Undang-Undang (BHEUU) Jabatan Perdana Menteri untuk meminda Akta SUHAKAM 1999, antaranya, pindaan peruntukan berkaitan kapasiti SUHAKAM sebagai NHRI yang bebas dan juga Laporan Tahunan SUHAKAM yang mana Seksyen 21 Akta SUHAKAM tidak secara khusus menyatakan bahawa Laporan Tahunan SUHAKAM perlu dibahaskan di Parlimen. SUHAKAM berpendapat bahawa amat penting untuk Ahli Parlimen membincangkan secara kritis, isu-isu hak asasi manusia yang melibatkan kepentingan awam di Malaysia dan mengesyorkan penyelesaian yang bersesuaian terhadap isu-isu ini, terutamanya setelah Putrajaya berikrar untuk mengutamakan hak asasi dalam permohonannya dan seterusnya mendapat pelantikan sebagai ahli kepada Majlis Hak Asasi Manusia (MHAM) di bawah Pertubuhan Bangsa-bangsa Bersatu bagi penggal 2022-2021.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

1 Disember 2021

Pertanyaan Media: Sila hubungi Pn. Norashikin Hamzah melalui 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 atau shikin@suhakam.org.my

PS

Press Statement No. 13-2021 (OCC)_World Children’s Day 2021

PRESS STATEMENT

KUALA LUMPUR (20 NOVEMBER 2021)   –   In commemorating the World Children’s Day with the 2021 theme, “A Better Future for Every Child”, Prof Dato’ Noor Aziah Mohd Awal, the Children’s Commissioner (CC) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) wishes to reiterate that all children should be treated equally and to be protected against all forms of discrimination.

The COVID-19 pandemic has immensely impacted on the rights and lives of our children in many ways. Data by the Health Ministry reported by the media on 12 October 2021 showed that a total of 410,762 children aged 17 and below in Malaysia contracted COVID-19 which is a dramatic increase from 12,620 infected children last year. During this difficult time, we have also witnessed other challenges faced by children including the loss of learning, rise of child abuse cases, mental health issues, orphaned children, and their families pushed into poverty.

The CC applauds the Government for allocating the highest ever allocation of RM52.6 billion for education in 2022 and a total of RM25 million through Malaysian Family Foundation, to help children who were made orphans by the COVID-19 pandemic. This demonstrates the seriousness of the government to address future welfare and academic development of our children. In strategising the utilisation of these allocations, the CC advises the Government to develop a comprehensive post pandemic plan to overcome the ramifications of the pandemic, to benefit all children in Malaysia, regardless of their status.

In line with the Article 2 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), States Parties shall respect and ensure the rights set forth in the Convention to each child within their jurisdiction without discrimination of any kind. In view of this, the CC calls on the Government to ensure that the 2022 National Budget and the Malaysia’s National Recovery Plan (NRP) be driven by the principles of the best interest of the child, their survival and development, non-discrimination and the views of child. Therefore, towards a better future of every child in Malaysia, the CC emphasises that the same principles to be consistently applied and integrated into all policies, programmes, legislation as well as judicial decisions affecting the child.

-END-

Professor Dato’ Noor Aziah Hj. Mohd Awal, Children’s Commissioner

20 November 2021

Media queries: Contact Mrs. Norashikin Hamzah at 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 or shikin@suhakam.org.my

KENYATAAN MEDIA

KUALA LUMPUR (20 NOVEMBER 2021)   –   Dalam memperingati Hari Kanak-Kanak Sedunia dengan tema 2021, “Masa Depan Yang Lebih Baik untuk Setiap Kanak-Kanak”, Prof Dato’ Noor Aziah Mohd Awal, Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak (CC) Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) ingin menekankan semula bahawa semua kanak-kanak harus dilayan sama rata dan dilindungi daripada segala bentuk diskriminasi.

Pandemik COVID-19 telah memberi impak yang besar kepada hak dan kehidupan anak-anak kita dalam pelbagai aspek. Data Kementerian Kesihatan yang dilaporkan media pada 12 Oktober 2021 menunjukkan seramai 410,762 kanak-kanak berumur 17 tahun ke bawah di Malaysia dijangkiti COVID-19 iaitu peningkatan mendadak daripada 12,620 kanak-kanak yang dijangkiti tahun lepas. Dalam waktu yang sukar ini, kita juga telah menyaksikan cabaran lain yang dihadapi oleh kanak-kanak termasuk kehilangan pembelajaran, peningkatan kes penderaan kanak-kanak, isu kesihatan mental, kanak-kanak yang menjadi yatim piatu, dan keluarga mereka yang dilanda kemiskinan.

CC memuji pihak kerajaan kerana memberi peruntukan tertinggi sebanyak RM52.6 bilion untuk pendidikan pada tahun 2022 dan sejumlah RM25 juta melalui Yayasan Keluarga Malaysia, untuk membantu kanak-kanak yang menjadi yatim piatu akibat pandemik COVID-19. Ini menunjukkan kesungguhan kerajaan untuk menangani kebajikan masa depan dan pembangunan akademik anak-anak kita. Dalam menyusun strategi penggunaan peruntukan ini, CC menasihatkan Kerajaan untuk membangunkan pelan pasca pandemik yang komprehensif untuk mengatasi kesan wabak tersebut, untuk memberi manfaat kepada semua kanak-kanak di Malaysia, tanpa mengira status mereka.

Selaras dengan Perkara 2 Konvensyen Mengenai Hak Kanak-Kanak (CRC), Negara-Negara Pihak hendaklah menghormati dan memastikan hak-hak yang dinyatakan dalam Konvensyen diberikan kepada setiap kanak-kanak dalam bidang kuasa mereka tanpa sebarang bentuk diskriminasi. Sehubungan itu, CC menyeru Kerajaan untuk memastikan Bajet Negara 2022 dan Pelan Pemulihan Negara (NRP) Malaysia dipacu oleh prinsip-prinsip kepentingan kanak-kanak, kelangsungan hidup dan perkembangan mereka, prinsip tanpa diskriminasi dan pandangan kanak-kanak. Oleh itu, ke arah mencorakkan masa depan yang lebih baik bagi setiap kanak-kanak di Malaysia, CC menekankan bahawa prinsip yang sama harus diterapkan dan disepadukan secara konsisten ke dalam semua dasar, program, perundangan serta keputusan kehakiman yang melibatkan kanak-kanak itu.

-TAMAT-

Professor Dato’ Noor Aziah Hj. Mohd Awal, Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak

20 November 2021

Pertanyaan Media: Sila hubungi Pn. Norashikin Hamzah melalui 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 atau shikin@suhakam.org.my

PS

Press Statement No. 39-2021_SUHAKAM is Concerned with the Case of Nagaenthran K. Dharmalingam

PRESS STATEMENT

KUALA LUMPUR (10 NOVEMBER 2021)   –   The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) is concerned with the case of Nagaenthran K. Dharmalingam who was originally set to be executed today for attempting to bring 42.72 grams of heroin into Singapore in 2009. SUHAKAM deeply regrets the decision of the Government of Singapore to execute Nagaenthran, despite the assessment conducted by a medical expert showing that he had some level of intellectual disability.

SUHAKAM reiterates its stand that the mandatory imposition of the death penalty violates the basic right to life, as enshrined in international human rights laws as it constitutes an arbitrary deprivation of life. It also denies judges the possibility of considering the facts of the offence or the characteristics of each individual offender.

SUHAKAM emphasizes that the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) makes exception for the imposition of the death penalty only for the ‘most serious’ crimes and this has been repeatedly interpreted by the Human Rights Committee responsible for the interpretation of the Covenant that drug offences do not meet this threshold. SUHAKAM wishes to reiterate its call for the total abolition of the death penalty in the country, in line with the belief in a person’s fundamental right to life.

SUHAKAM therefore calls on the Government of Singapore to move in the direction of universal consciousness towards taking all necessary measures to abolish the death penalty, and recommends that a moratorium on the use of the death penalty be put in place that will at the very least, demonstrate some semblance of respect for human dignity and to the enhancement and progressive development of human rights in the nation. We also call all governments in ASEAN to also move in this direction towards the abolishing the death penalty.

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

10 November 2021

Media queries: Contact Mrs. Norashikin Hamzah at 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 or shikin@suhakam.org.my

KENYATAAN MEDIA

KUALA LUMPUR (10 NOVEMBER 2021)  –  Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) menzahirkan kebimbangan berkenaan kes Nagaenthran K. Dharmalingam yang pada asalnya dijadualkan untuk menjalani hukuman mati pada hari ini di atas cubaan untuk menyeludup 42.72 gram heroin ke Singapura pada tahun 2009. SUHAKAM amat kecewa dengan keputusan Kerajaan Singapura yang memutuskan untuk menjalankan hukuman mati ke atas Nagaenthran meskipun penilaian oleh pakar perubatan menunjukkan bahawa Nagaenthran mengalami kurang upaya intelektual.

SUHAKAM mengulangi pendiriannya bahawa mengenakan hukuman mati mandatori melanggar hak kepada kehidupan sepertimana yang termaktub dalam undang-undang hak asasi manusia antarabangsa kerana ia merupakan penafian hak kepada kehidupan secara sebarangan. Hukuman mati mandatori juga menafikan kemungkinan untuk para hakim mempertimbangkan fakta-fakta kesalahan ataupun ciri-ciri setiap pesalah.

SUHAKAM menekankan bahawa Kovenan Antarabangsa Hak Sivil dan Politik membuat pengecualian untuk mengenakan hukuman mati hanya bagi jenayah ‘paling serius’ dan Jawatankuasa Hak Asasi Manusia yang bertanggungjawab untuk mentafsirkan Kovenan tersebut telah berulang kali menyatakan bahawa kesalahan berkaitan dadah tidak memenuhi kategori tersebut. SUHAKAM dengan ini mengulangi seruannya untuk pemansuhan sepenuhnya hukuman mati di negara ini, selari dengan kepercayaan terhadap hak asasi seseorang untuk hidup.

Oleh itu, SUHAKAM menyeru Kerajaan Singapura untuk bergerak seiring dengan kesedaran sejagat ke arah pengambilan langkah-langkah yang perlu untuk memansuhkan hukuman mati dan mengesyorkan agar moratorium terhadap hukuman mati dilaksanakan, sekurang-kurangnya untuk menunjukkan penghormatan terhadap maruah manusia dan bagi meningkat dan membangun secara progresif hak asasi manusia di dalam negara. SUHAKAM juga menyeru Kerajaan di ASEAN untuk turut sama bergerak selari ke arah pemansuhan hukuman mati.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

10 November 2021

Pertanyaan Media: Sila hubungi Pn. Norashikin Hamzah melalui 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 atau shikin@suhakam.org.my

PS

Press Statement No. 38-2021_International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

PRESS STATEMENT

KUALA LUMPUR (17 OCTOBER 2021)   –   The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed on 17 October annually to encourage all States to promote and undertake, as appropriate in the national context, concrete activities to eradicate poverty. The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) observed that, in Malaysia, the incidence of poverty persists among those who are economically and socially vulnerable including the daily wage workers, contract workers, single parents, indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities, among others.

The COVID-19 pandemic, combined with the lack of a comprehensive social protection system has exacerbated the insecurity and vulnerability of these groups, and their inability to protect against interruption or loss of income due to the movement restrictions enforced during the pandemic.  It was reported that the number of poor households increased from 405,400 in 2019 to 639,800, a year later. According to the Department of Statistics, Malaysia, the true impact of the pandemic would be better evidenced by the Household Income and Basic Amenities (HIS/BA) Survey which would be conducted in 2022.

In line with this year’s theme, “Building Forward Together: Ending Persistent Poverty, Respecting all People and our Planet”, SUHAKAM calls the Government to adopt a human rights-based approach in its effort to eradicate poverty. This should include active participation of vulnerable communities in decisions that affect them, Government commitment to fulfill its obligations as duty-bearers, ensuring principles of non-discrimination and equality are met; and empowering every individual to claim and exercise their rights. The UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights had reported in 2019, that there are at least 110 different social support programs spread across more than 20 ministries and agencies in Malaysia. Whilst acknowledging the Government’s efforts to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and to eradicate extreme poverty through the National Recovery Plan and the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (2021-2025), it is crucial to note that a more coordinated strategy is needed to ensure that all the plans can be delivered effectively.

SUHAKAM calls for all stakeholders to play their role towards the realization and protection of the rights of the vulnerable communities and to ensure that they are able to enjoy, at the very least, the minimum standards of a dignified life set forth by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

17 October 2021

Media queries: Contact Mrs. Norashikin Hamzah at 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 or shikin@suhakam.org.my

KENYATAAN MEDIA

KUALA LUMPUR (17 OKTOBER 2021)  –  Hari Antarabangsa bagi Pembasmian Kemiskinan diperingati pada 17 Oktober setiap tahun bagi menggalakkan setiap negara untuk mempromosi dan menjalankan aktiviti membasmi kemiskinan, yang bersesuaian dengan konteks negara. Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) mendapati bahawa di Malaysia, kemiskinan terus wujud dalam kalangan mereka yang kurang bernasib baik dari segi ekonomi dan sosial antaranya termasuk pekerja gaji harian, pekerja kontrak, ibu atau bapa tunggal, orang asli dan orang kurang upaya.

Pandemik COVID-19 serta kekurangan sistem perlindungan sosial yang menyeluruh, telah memburukkan lagi kerentanan golongan tersebut dan menjejaskan kebolehan mereka untuk melindungi diri daripada gangguan atau kehilangan mata pencarian yang disebabkan oleh kawalan pergerakan yang dikuatkuasakan semasa pandemik. Terdapat laporan yang menyatakan bilangan isi rumah miskin telah meningkat daripada 405,400 pada tahun 2019 kepada 639,800 pada tahun 2020. Menurut Jabatan Perangkaan Malaysia, impak sebenar pandemik lebih tepat digambarkan menggunakan Tinjauan Pendapatan Isi Rumah dan Kemudahan Asas yang akan dilaksanakan pada tahun 2022.

Selari dengan tema tahun ini “Building Forward Together: Ending Persistent Poverty, Respecting all People and our Planet”, SUHAKAM menyeru Kerajaan untuk menerima pakai pendekatan berteraskan hak asasi manusia dalam usaha untuk membasmi kemiskinan. Ini termasuk penglibatan aktif golongan rentan dalam membuat keputusan yang melibatkan mereka, komitmen Kerajaan sebagai pemegang amanah untuk memenuhi tanggungjawabnya, memastikan prinsip tiada diskriminasi dan kesaksamaan dipenuhi; dan memperkasakan setiap individu untuk menuntut dan menjalankan hak mereka. Pelapor Khas PBB mengenai kemiskinan dan hak asasi manusia telah melaporkan pada 2019 bahawa terdapat sekurang- kurangnya 110 program sokongan sosial yang berbeza melibatkan 20 kementerian dan agensi di Malaysia. Sementara mengakui usaha Kerajaan untuk mengurangkan impak pandemik COVID-19 dan untuk mengurangkan kemiskinan tegar melalui Pelan Pemulihan Kebangsaan dan Rancangan Malaysia ke-12 (2021-2025), penting untuk mengambil maklum bahawa strategi yang lebih selaras diperlukan bagi memastikan semua rancangan dapat dilaksanakan dengan berkesan.

SUHAKAM menyeru agar semua pihak berkepentingan memainkan peranan masing-masing ke arah merealisasi dan melindungi hak komuniti rentan bagi memastikan mereka dapat menikmati sekurang-kurangnya standard minimum kehidupan yang bermaruah yang ditetapkan oleh Perisytiharan Hak Asasi Manusia Sejagat (UDHR).

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

17 Oktober 2021

Pertanyaan Media: Sila hubungi Pn. Norashikin Hamzah melalui 03-2612 5687 / 019-621 5336 atau shikin@suhakam.org.my