Posts in category: Press Statement

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

KUALA LUMPUR (3 JUNE 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses deep concern over the growing hostility, discriminatory rhetoric, and online attacks directed at the Rohingya community in Malaysia, particularly during the recent Eid al-Adha celebrations.

The circulation of abusive comments and hateful narratives targeting Rohingya refugees during their religious observances is deeply troubling and reflects a dangerous trend of dehumanisation. Such expressions not only undermine the dignity of an already vulnerable community but also erode the values of compassion, empathy, and respect that are fundamental to Malaysian society.

At a time when the world continues to witness grave atrocities against civilian populations, SUHAKAM reiterates that human suffering must not be measured selectively. Genocide is genocide, regardless of where it occurs. The international community has rightly expressed outrage over the devastation and loss of civilian lives in Gaza. That same commitment to human dignity and justice must extend to all peoples facing persecution, including the Rohingya, who have endured decades of systemic discrimination, statelessness, forced displacement, and mass atrocities in Myanmar.

The Rohingya crisis remains one of the most serious humanitarian and human rights challenges in our region. The findings of international bodies, including the fact-finding mission established by the United Nations, have documented acts that may amount to genocide and crimes against humanity against the Rohingya population. These realities must not be forgotten simply because the victims are refugees living among us.

It is also important to distinguish refugees from migrants. Refugees do not leave their homes voluntarily in search of better economic opportunities. They are forced to flee because of persecution, armed conflict, violence, or serious human rights violations in their countries of origin. The Rohingya, in particular, have endured decades of systematic discrimination, statelessness, and targeted violence that have left them with little choice but to seek safety elsewhere.

The overwhelming majority of Rohingya refugees did not come to Malaysia by choice, but out of necessity and survival. Their presence here is a consequence of circumstances beyond their control. For many, Malaysia serves as a place of temporary refuge while they await durable solutions, including voluntary repatriation when conditions are safe and dignified, or resettlement to third countries willing to provide them with long-term protection. Portraying refugees as opportunistic migrants not only misrepresents their lived realities but also obscures the grave human rights violations that forced them to flee in the first place.

Refugees are, first and foremost, human beings. They are mothers, fathers, children, and families who have fled violence, persecution, and fear in search of safety and dignity. Public discourse that portrays them as less deserving of rights, respect, or compassion risks normalising hatred and fostering social division. SUHAKAM calls upon all Malaysians, including public figures, media practitioners, and social media users, to refrain from spreading harmful stereotypes, misinformation, and inflammatory rhetoric against refugees and asylum seekers. Freedom of expression carries responsibilities and should never be used to incite hatred, discrimination, or hostility towards vulnerable communities.

As a member of ASEAN and a country that has long played an important humanitarian role in the region, Malaysia must continue to uphold the principles of humanity, non-discrimination, and respect for human dignity. Addressing legitimate policy concerns relating to refugee management must never come at the expense of fundamental human rights or human decency.

SUHAKAM stands in solidarity with all victims of persecution and violence, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, religion, or legal status. We urge Malaysians to reject hatred and dehumanisation in all forms and to reaffirm our shared commitment to compassion, justice, and the protection of human dignity.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
3 June 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (25 MAY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) conducted a Public Inquiry into Human Rights Violations During and After the Incident on 17 January 2025 at Taiping Prison, Perak. The Public Inquiry was convened following a complaint received by SUHAKAM on 3 February 2025 from family members of the High Court Detainees (“HCDs”).

The complaint alleged that a group of HCDs had been subjected to human rights violations at Taiping Prison, Perak. Among the allegations of human rights violations brought to SUHAKAM’s attention were:
i. A riot incident involving the use of force by Taiping Prison staff against approximately 80 to 100 HCDs, resulting in injuries; and
ii. The incident also resulted in the death of an HCD named Gan Chin Eng.

Following this, SUHAKAM initiated a Public Inquiry into the incident that occurred on 17 January 2025 at Taiping Prison. The Public Inquiry proceedings commenced on 9 June 2025 and lasted for 3 months and 2 weeks, with the final proceedings (oral submissions) held on 15 December 2025. A total of 50 witnesses testified, and 127 exhibits were tendered during the proceedings.

As a result of the Public Inquiry, the Inquiry Panel confirmed that human rights violations against the HCDs had occurred during and after the incident on 17 January 2025 at Taiping Prison, Perak, as follows:
i. Excessive physical violence was inflicted by a large number of prison staff against the HCDs during the transfer operation from Hall B to Block E on 17 January 2025;
ii. Prison staff abused the use of weapons and security equipment such as batons and pepper spray;
iii. Negligence and incompetence among senior officers of Taiping Prison;
iv. Serious overcrowding issues at Taiping Prison;
v. Prolonged remand detention periods;
vi. Financial allocation constraints from the Government;
vii. Negligence and failure in providing medical treatment to injured HCDs;
viii. Elements of falsification in medical record documentation;
ix. HCDs were subjected to inhumane and degrading treatment following the incident on 17 January 2025;
x. Police reports lodged against the HCDs contained false information;
xi. The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) failed to conduct a separate investigation into the acts of violence committed by prison staff against the HCDs; and
xii. Significant delays by the Attorney General’s Chambers in reviewing the PDRM investigation papers and initiating charges in court.

In this regard, the Public Inquiry Panel has proposed the following recommendations:
a) Disciplinary action to be taken against the management and staff of Taiping Prison;
b) PDRM to conduct a separate investigation into the acts of violence committed by prison staff against the HCDs;
c) To conduct a comprehensive study on alternatives to remand and imprisonment in addressing prison overcrowding issues;
d) To abolish the practice of the bucket system at Taiping Prison and all prison institutions;
e) To conduct regular and comprehensive training to all Taiping Prison staff;
f) To ensure that detainees’ basic needs are consistently met;
g) To improve medical and healthcare facilities in prison institutions;
h) To review the continued operation of Taiping Prison at its current site, taking into account its gazettement as a Heritage Building; and
i) Accession to the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT).

The full report of the Public Inquiry can be accessed at
https://suhakam.org.my/publications/national-public-inquiry-reports/

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
25 May 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (15 MAY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) organised the Forum on the Rights of the Indigenous Peoples in Sabah and Sarawak on 6 May 2026 at Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, with the support of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

Held under the theme “Advancing Indigenous Rights, Strengthening Communities, Guiding Human Rights Based Business Practices”, the forum brought together approximately 200 participants, both physically and virtually, from Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia. Participants included representatives from government agencies, Indigenous leaders and communities, civil society organisations, academia, Indigenous youth and women leaders, as well as representatives from the business sector and government-linked companies (GLCs).

The forum was officiated by Dato’ Seri Mohd Hishamudin Yunus, Chairman of SUHAKAM, who underscored the importance of recognising and protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples, while ensuring that national development is implemented in an inclusive, equitable and human rights-based manner. Also in attendance was Yang Berhormat Datuk Dr. Maijol Mahap, the Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing of Sabah.

As a continuation of SUHAKAM’s National Inquiry into the Land Rights of Indigenous Peoples conducted between 2010 and 2012, the forum served as an important platform to amplify the voices, participation, and rights of Indigenous Peoples within the national development agenda. Discussions focused particularly on customary land rights, the preservation of culture and identity, and the overall well-being of Indigenous communities. The forum further reaffirmed that economic growth and national development must be pursued in a manner that is inclusive, fair, and grounded in human rights principles. In this regard, the principle of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC), as enshrined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), was emphasised as a fundamental safeguard to ensure that the rights and interests of Indigenous Peoples are respected in all development initiatives.

The first plenary session focused on strengthening the participation of Indigenous Peoples in sustainable and community-led development, including challenges in ensuring genuinely meaningful involvement in decision-making processes. The second plenary session examined the culture, language and identity of Indigenous Peoples within the context of a modern nation-state, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural heritage as an integral part of community identity and survival. Meanwhile, the third plenary session emphasised the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in advancing Indigenous Peoples’ rights collectively, particularly through the roles played by government institutions, civil society and related sectors.

Across the plenary sessions, the forum also highlighted the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in promoting sustainable and responsible business practices aligned with the Malaysia National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAPBHR) 2025-2030. This commitment was further reinforced through a recorded video message delivered by the Deputy Director-General (Policy & Development) of the Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU), Prime Minister’s Department, Dato Dr. Punitha Silivarajoo.

The closing remarks were delivered by Datuk Mariati Robert, Vice Chairman of SUHAKAM, who reaffirmed that the forum reflected SUHAKAM’s continued commitment as a national human rights institution guided by the Paris Principles, international standards that underscore the role of national human rights institutions in promoting, protecting and advocating for human rights independently, transparently and effectively.

SUHAKAM hopes that the forum serves as a catalyst for stronger strategic collaboration among all stakeholders in advancing the forum’s aspirations of “Advancing Indigenous Rights, Strengthening Communities, Guiding Human Rights Based Business Practices”.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
15 May 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (13 MAY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) calls on all Malaysians to uphold the values of mutual respect, dignity, and inclusivity in preserving national unity and social harmony. Malaysia’s diversity has long been the foundation of the nation’s strength. Our multicultural and multireligious society reflects the principles enshrined in the Federal Constitution, including the guarantee of equality and non-discrimination under Article 8 irrespective of religion, race, descent, or background, as well the protection of freedom of expression and human dignity for all persons. However, in recent years, public discourse has increasingly been marked by racial hostility, inflammatory rhetoric, and divisive narratives, particularly on social media and within political spaces.

In conjunction with the remembrance of the tragic events of 13 May 1969, SUHAKAM emphasises that the lessons of history should guide the nation towards greater understanding and unity, rather than fear, division, or political manipulation. Historical events must never be used to justify intolerance, silence legitimate discourse, or fuel racial animosity.

Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right guaranteed under Article 10 of the Federal Constitution and recognised under international human rights standards. However, this right also carries responsibilities. Expressions that incite discrimination, hostility, or violence against individuals or groups based on race, religion, ethnicity, or other protected characteristics undermine social cohesion and threaten democratic values.

SUHAKAM reiterates that efforts to address hate speech and racism must be grounded in human rights principles, including legality, necessity, proportionality, and accountability. Any measures taken by authorities should clearly distinguish between legitimate criticism, public debate, and advocacy on one hand, and genuine incitement to violence or discrimination on the other.

At the same time, SUHAKAM stresses that elected representatives and political leaders bear a heightened responsibility to set a positive example. Members of Parliament, as leaders entrusted with public confidence, should promote respectful engagement, reject racial or religious provocation, and refrain from making statements that may deepen mistrust and polarisation within society. Political differences must never come at the expense of national unity or human dignity. Public institutions, political parties, civil society organisations, media practitioners, educators, and community leaders all share a collective responsibility to foster an environment that encourages constructive dialogue, empathy, and understanding across communities. National unity cannot be achieved solely through slogans or enforcement measures, but through sustained commitment to justice, equality, and respect for diversity.

SUHAKAM also encourages the Government to strengthen human rights education, intercultural dialogue initiatives, and public awareness programmes aimed at combating racism, xenophobia, and prejudice in all forms. Building an inclusive society requires long-term efforts that address misinformation, stereotypes, and hate-based narratives before they escalate into discrimination or violence. National unity must be built on the recognition that every individual, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or background, is entitled to equal dignity, protection, and respect.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
13 May 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (27 APRIL 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), in its capacity as Chair of the South East Asia National Human Rights Institutions Forum (SEANF), successfully convened the 1st Technical Working Group (TWG) Meeting of SEANF and two side events from 21 to 23 April 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with participation both in person and virtually.

The 1st TWG Meeting brought together member institutions of SEANF, namely SUHAKAM, the Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines (CHRP), the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRCT), the Provedor de Direitos Humanos e Justiça (PDHJ) of Timor-Leste, the National Commission on Human Rights of Indonesia (Komnas HAM), and the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission (MNHRC). The three-day engagement also featured meaningful participation from civil society organisations (CSOs), regional experts, and other stakeholders.

The 1st TWG Meeting was officially opened by SUHAKAM Commissioner, Tuan Abdul Kadir Jailani bin Ismail, who underscored the need for SEANF to move beyond dialogue towards coordinated and courageous action, particularly in protecting human rights defenders, advancing human rights in the context of business and climate change, and strengthening regional solidarity in the face of growing challenges

Over the course of the 1st TWG Meeting, SEANF members exchanged updates on key developments, initiatives, and challenges since the 22nd SEANF Annual Conference. Discussions focused on the continued implementation of the 2022–2026 SEANF Strategic Plan, with emphasis on its four strategic priorities: ensuring human rights remain central in a post-pandemic environment, advancing business and human rights, preventing torture and other forms of ill-treatment, and strengthening SEANF as a credible, independent, and effective regional network. Adherence to the Paris Principles was reaffirmed throughout the TWG, underscoring the continued commitment of SEANF members to independence, credibility, and effectiveness in the promotion and protection of human rights.

In line with its leadership role under Strategic Priority 4(a), SUHAKAM shared progress in reviewing SEANF’s institutional framework, including proposed amendments to the Rules of Procedure to enhance clarity on the definition of NHRIs and introduce a two-thirds majority decision-making mechanism where consensus cannot be reached. The 1st TWG Meeting also deliberated on a range of emerging and cross-cutting issues, including the rights of older persons, the Inter-NHRI Mechanism, and the human rights impact of armed conflict and related energy crises in the region. These discussions highlighted the importance of coordinated regional responses and strengthened collaboration among SEANF members.

A dedicated session with CSOs, including the Asian NGO Network on National Human Rights Institutions (ANNI) and Suara Rakyat Malaysia (SUARAM), provided a valuable platform for dialogue on the role of NHRIs in advancing environmental rights and supporting human rights defenders (HRDs). Participants also reflected on the ANNI 2025 Report and explored avenues for joint advocacy and capacity-building.

Two side events further enriched the 1st TWG Meeting. The “Defending the Defenders” session underscored the critical role of NHRIs in protecting HRDs, including child human rights defenders, and addressing challenges such as intimidation and Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP). Meanwhile, the Forum on Human Rights, Business and Climate Justice 2026 held on 23 April 2026 examined the intersection of environmental rights, corporate accountability, and climate justice, highlighting the need for stronger governance frameworks and inclusive, rights-based approaches.

The 1st TWG Meeting concluded with a closing address by SUHAKAM Chairman, Dato’ Seri Mohd Hishamudin Yunus, who reaffirmed SEANF’s collective commitment to carry forward the momentum of the meeting by translating dialogue into concrete action, particularly in strengthening the protection of HRDs, including children, while deepening regional cooperation and institutional effectiveness.

The successful convening of the 1st TWG Meeting marks an important step forward as SEANF enters the final year of its current Strategic Plan. SEANF Members reiterated their shared commitments to enhance regional solidarity, respond effectively to emerging human rights challenges, and uphold the fundamental principles of human dignity, justice, and equality across South East Asia.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
27 April 2026