KUALA LUMPUR (28 AUGUST 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the tabling of the Gig Workers Bill 2025 as an important step towards recognising and protecting the rights of gig economy workers in Malaysia. Gig workers, including e-hailing and p-hailing drivers as well as freelancers across various sectors, play a vital role in supporting Malaysia’s economy and providing essential services to the public.

By introducing legal recognition and extending social and workplace protections, the Bill marks a positive move towards addressing long-standing vulnerabilities faced by gig workers. These include gaps in social protection, uncertainty in employment status, lack of dispute resolution mechanisms, and insufficient safeguards for fair remuneration and occupational safety.

At the same time, SUHAKAM believes that further refinements are necessary to ensure that the Bill fully delivers on its promise of dignity and fairness for gig workers while maintaining the genuine flexibility that makes the gig economy attractive to many and an important engine of economic growth.

Therefore, SUHAKAM wishes to recommend the following:

i.          A clear framework to ensure guaranteed minimum payment rates, either by hours worked or tasks completed, including clarity on deductions for contributions and the timeline for wage payments by service providers.

ii.         Mandatory contributions by service providers to PERKESO/EPF must be enforced, with legal action taken against non-compliant companies.

iii.        Right to privacy must be respected and workers’ personal data should not be misused for rating or scoring systems, consistent with Article 12 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

iv.        Access to legal aid should be extended to gig workers, covering legal advice and representation at tribunals. The National Legal Aid Foundation’s (YBGK’s) resources should be strengthened to enable support for gig workers.

v.         Gig workers must be explicitly permitted to unionise under the Industrial Relations Act 1967 (Revised 1976) (Act 177) (IRA) and engage in collective bargaining to ensure their voices are heard in shaping fairer working conditions.

SUHAKAM further emphasises that the establishment of the Special Gig Economy Workers Commission (SEGIM) must consider that gig workers’ issues are cross-cutting in nature, involving multiple ministries. Effective coordination is therefore essential to ensure comprehensive protection and coherent policy responses.

In line with its statutory mandate to advise and assist the Government on matters relating to human rights, SUHAKAM regrets that it was not consulted in the drafting of the Bill, despite the recent amendment of the SUHAKAM Act which further strengthens its advisory role. SUHAKAM also expresses concern that the Government only made the Bill public at a very last stage in the legislative process. SUHAKAM should have been formally included in the consultation process. Therefore, SUHAKAM urges the Ministry concerned that at the Second Reading stage of the Bill in Parliament the Bill is not passed as yet. Instead the Bill ought to be submitted to the appropriate Parliamentary Select Committee for detail scrutiny by the PSC of the provisions of the Bill.

SUHAKAM stands ready to work with the Government and relevant stakeholders to ensure that the legislation is consistent with human rights principles and contributes to the goal of decent work for all.

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 28 August 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (19 AUGUST 2025) – SUHAKAM takes note of the charges to be brought against five children in the case involving the late Zara Qairina Mahathir. We urge the public and media to act responsibly and observe the following:

1. The children are entitled to full protection under the Child Act 2001 [Act 611], including trauma-informed support, legal representation and fair treatment.

2. Their identities must not be revealed directly or indirectly. No names, photos, schools or any details that could lead to them being identified should be made public. Section 15 of the Act makes it a punishable offence to publish any information that could identify children involved in court proceedings. Penalties include up to RM10,000 or 5 years’ imprisonment, or both.

3. The Court for Children is a closed court under Section 12 of the Child Act 2001. Only parties directly involved are permitted to attend. The privacy of the children must be respected.

SUHAKAM’s priority is to prevent further stigmatisation of the children involved. We remind the public that bullying, whether in schools or online, is never acceptable.

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok are strongly urged to update their internal policies and community standards to proactively flag and remove any content that breaches Section 15 of the Child Act 2001. Any content published that could identify the children likely amplifies harm to them, whether unintentionally or maliciously. Waiting for takedown requests may allow illegal and harmful content to spread widely, defeating the protective intent of the law. Failure to act risks further harm to the children and may amount to complicity in unlawful disclosure.

Let justice take its course in accordance with child rights and the rule of law.

-END-

The Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC)
Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) 
Date: 19 August 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (18 AUGUST 2025) – The Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC), Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) emphasises that all forms of bullying are unacceptable and must be addressed immediately. Such behaviour violates the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), to which Malaysia has ratified and is punishable under Malaysian law, including the recent introduction of section 507B – 507G of the Penal Code. Every child is entitled to attend school and reside in a dormitory free from fear, harassment or violence.

The OCC suggests creating a nationwide, inclusive, one-stop Anti-Bullying Portal to manage reports of physical, cyber and institutional bullying. This portal should be child-friendly, multilingual and accessible to children with disabilities, featuring sign language videos, text and audio options. It should enable children to report anonymously to ensure their safety and to track the status of their reports. The platform should provide step-by-step guidance and direct links for emergencies, mental health issues, school problems and cyber incidents, connecting users to relevant authorities like Talian Kasih, MOE, MARA, PDRM, JKM and MCMC. Additionally, it should link directly to social media platforms for takedown requests. Offline methods such as SMS and complaint boxes at schools and institutions should also be available.

All schools and dormitories are required to have a formal Child Protection Policy signed by teachers, wardens and parents, designed with the children’s input. This policy should include anti-bullying clauses, clear reporting procedures, victim protection measures and mandatory training. Parents, the parents-teachers association (PTA) and schools must make a formal pledge to prevent bullying, attend parenting workshops and actively follow up on intervention plans for their children.

Teachers play a vital role in creating safe and inclusive learning environments. At present, the children’s rights syllabus at the Institutes of Teacher Education (IPG) is limited in scope, having been developed without consultation or input from the OCC. To ensure alignment with the CRC, the OCC proposes that the syllabus be reviewed by us and strengthened accordingly. Additionally, the OCC also notes that the human rights module jointly developed with IPG, which includes a chapter on children’s rights, is still optional and therefore, we strongly urge that this module be made mandatory for all trainee teachers at IPG and extended to in-service teachers nationwide to ensure that all educators are well equipped to protect, uphold and promote children’s rights.

The OCC further calls on the Government, the Ministry of Education, schools, teachers, parents and the community to take urgent action. Enforcement of laws, enhancement of reporting channels and safeguarding the privacy of children, regardless whether they are victims or alleged perpetrators, are essential. Bullying is not rooted in our culture; it is a violation of rights that must be eliminated.

-END-

The Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC)
Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) 
Date: 18 August 2025

ARREST OF EGYPTIAN STUDENT IN MALAYSIA: CONCERNS OVER FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND HUMAN RIGHTS OBLIGATIONS

KUALA LUMPUR (9 AUGUST 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses concern over the recent arrest of Egyptian university student, Mohammed Marwan, by Malaysian authorities following his peaceful protest outside the Egyptian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.

While SUHAKAM does not condone acts of vandalism or the defacement of property as a form of protest, we emphasise that any expression of opinion, particularly when carried out in a non-violent and conscientious manner, should be addressed proportionately and in accordance with human rights principles. Marwan’s message, in solidarity with civilians in Gaza, reflects a humanitarian concern that is widely shared by Malaysians. The right to freedom of expression is protected under Article 10(1)(a) of the Federal Constitution and Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

SUHAKAM takes note of the update from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) confirming that Marwan has been released from custody and that, no deportation has taken place. This outcome is a positive development. It is also in line with Malaysia’s obligations under international human rights law, including the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning individuals to countries where they may face torture, persecution, or inhumane treatment.

Nonetheless, SUHAKAM remains concerned that the arrest took place in the first instance, given that the act in question was peaceful and falls within the scope of protected expression. The circumstances of the arrest raise important questions about how the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are interpreted and applied in practice.

Malaysia has long held a firm stance in support of humanitarian justice, particularly concerning the plight of the Palestinian people. This position has been echoed by many in Malaysian society, including the highest levels of government. In this context, the arrest of a student for expressing solidarity with the same cause may send a conflicting message and risks undermining public trust in the consistency of Malaysia’s human rights commitments.

SUHAKAM urges all authorities and institutions to remain vigilant in upholding the fundamental freedoms guaranteed under national and international law. Malaysia must ensure that its legal processes and enforcement mechanisms are not influenced by external pressures in ways that compromise these rights.

As a matter of principle, no individual, regardless of nationality, should be penalised for peacefully exercising their conscience in support of justice, human dignity, and the protection of civilians from violence. Upholding these values is vital to preserving Malaysia’s standing as a nation committed to human rights and the rule of law.

-END-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 9 August 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (2 AUGUST 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) warmly welcomes the designation of YBrs. Dr. Farah Nini binti Dusuki, a Human Rights Commissioner, as the Chief Children Commissioner until the completion of her three-year term as Commissioner on 8 March 2026.

SUHAKAM also warmly welcomes the appointments of Dr. Mohd Al Adib bin Samuri, Dr. Zufar Yadi Brendan bin Abdullah and Puan Melissa binti Mohd Akhir as Human Rights Commissioners, effective 28 June 2025. Dr. Mohd Al Adib bin Samuri and Dr. Zufar Yadi Brendan bin Abdullah are also simultaneously designated as Children Commissioners.

These appointments and designations by His Majesty Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the recommendations of the Prime Minister under section 5 and section 6A of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 [Act 597], reflect the Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the protection and promotion of children’s rights in Malaysia. SUHAKAM is confident that the experience, expertise, and unwavering dedication of the new Commissioners will enhance the Commission’s efforts to safeguard the rights and well-being of all children, including those who are undocumented and in conflict with the law.

Dr. Farah Nini Dusuki, appointed as a Commissioner on 8 March 2023, and administratively designated as a Children Commissioner, is an academic at the Faculty of Law, University of Malaya, with over 32 years of experience in child rights and human rights. She holds a PhD in child law from Cardiff University and has served as a consultant to various government agencies and NGOs. As a Children Commissioner, she has been actively involved in legal reforms, child complaint mechanisms, and raising public awareness on urgent child rights issues.

Dr. Mohd Al Adib Samuri, an academic at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, specialises in child rights within the Islamic legal framework. He earned his PhD in law focusing on children in conflict with the law and works closely with ministries, UNICEF, and civil society on issues like education rights, child marriage, and refugee children.

Dr. Zufar Yadi Brendan Abdullah brings 38 years of experience in social research, policy, and community development in Sarawak. A member of the Sarawak Social Development Council, he has led various volunteer initiatives on child rights and holds a PhD in Human Development from the United Kingdom.

Puan Melissa Mohd Akhir is a child rights expert with over 20 years of experience in law and protection across Southeast Asia. She holds a Master of Laws in International Children’s Rights from Leiden University and previously served as a Deputy Public Prosecutor at the Attorney General Chambers. She played a key role in drafting child protection legislation and now focuses on access to justice and parliamentary advocacy.

SUHAKAM hopes that these appointments and designations will support and enhance institutional responses to key child rights issues, particularly in ensuring access to quality education, robust child protection mechanisms, and a just and rehabilitative juvenile justice system.

We look forward to working collaboratively in building an inclusive and child-centred Malaysia in line with the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the Child Act 2001. SUHAKAM remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that every child in Malaysia is protected, heard, and allowed to thrive.

-END-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 2 August 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (1 August 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses deep concern over reports that a 14-year-old male student has been remanded 2-days for allegedly punching and threatening a schoolteacher after being reprimanded for skipping a physical education class.

SUHAKAM stands in solidarity with the teacher involved and reiterates that violence in any form is unacceptable. Every individual, whether teacher, student, or staff has the right to a safe and respectful environment in which to teach and learn.

However, SUHAKAM also strongly emphasises that children who come into conflict with the law must be treated in a manner that upholds their dignity, rights, and potential for rehabilitation, as guaranteed under the Child Act 2001 [Act 611] (‘Child Act’) and Malaysia’s international commitments, including the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (‘CRC’) adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 20 November 1989.

Whilst the nature of this case is serious, the student is protected under section 15 of the Child Act which prohibits the media from revealing any identifying details of a child involved in criminal or custody proceedings from media exposure or public condemnation. This provision reflects the spirit of Article 16 of the CRC which upholds every child’s right to privacy and protection from unlawful interference with their honour and reputation.  SUHAKAM reminds all media outlets and the public to respect the privacy of the child. Public identification, speculation, or vilification of minors is harmful and may breach this provision.

In light of this and similar incidents, SUHAKAM urgently calls on the Government of Malaysia to establish and implement a formal Diversion Policy for children in conflict with the law, in collaboration with stakeholders such as the police, welfare services, schools, and the judiciary.

A diversion mechanism allows children accused of minor or non-violent offences to be redirected away from the criminal justice system into community-based programmes focused on education, counselling, and behavioural support. This approach would not only reduce the risk of criminalisation and social stigma but also address underlying issues such as trauma, neglect, or mental health. Such a policy is not a denial of accountability, but a shift towards restorative and rehabilitative justice which is proven to be more effective and humane for children.

This incident should serve as a catalyst for reflection on broader systemic issues, prompting urgent consideration of whether schools have sufficient proactive and positive behavioural support systems, whether students have timely access to mental health services, and whether teachers are adequately equipped with conflict resolution and trauma-informed strategies. 

SUHAKAM therefore urges the Ministry of Education, school administrators, and relevant stakeholders to strengthen holistic, preventive support systems that prioritise the well-being of both students and educators.

Malaysia must move beyond punitive responses and embrace a child justice system that reflects compassion, equity, and the best interests of the child. SUHAKAM remains committed to working with the government and civil society to realise this vision.

-END-

Dr Farah Nini Dusuki
Children’s Commissioner
The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) 

Date: 1 August 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (30 JULY 2025) In conjunction with the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) reaffirms its unwavering stance that no human being should ever be trafficked, exploited, or treated as a commodity. Human trafficking is a heinous crime and a fundamental violation of human rights, dignity, and freedom. SUHAKAM reaffirms its commitment to upholding the fundamental rights and dignity of all individuals, and to supporting national and international efforts to combat human trafficking in all its forms.

This year’s theme – “Campaign to highlight the vital role of law enforcement and the criminal justice system in dismantling organised trafficking networks while ensuring a victim-centred approach”- is timely and crucial. As trafficking networks become more complex and transnational, a coordinated, right-based, and victim-focused response is critical.

Human trafficking is a severe violation of human rights and dignity, and it undermines Malaysia’s constitutional values and international obligations.

This position is firmly rooted in Malaysia’s domestic and international legal commitments. Article 5(1) of the Federal Constitution of Malaysia guarantees that “no person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty save in accordance with the law”, whilst Article 6 of the same explicitly prohibits slavery and forced labour. These constitutional guarantees align with Malaysia’s obligations under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), including Article 4, which prohibits slavery and servitude, and Article 5, which affirms that “no one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.”

Malaysia is also a State Party to key international instruments, including the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) and its Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children (Palermo Protocol), ratified in 2009. Whilst Malaysia’s recent elevation to Tier 2 in the United States Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report 2024 marks some progress, SUHAKAM would like to stress here that this should not lead to complacency. Every statistic represents a life of a person stripped of freedom and dignity.

SUHAKAM remains committed to working with our key stakeholders, including the Council for Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (MAPO), enforcement agencies, and civil society organisations to:

1. Strengthen victim-centred protection and rehabilitation mechanisms.
2. Improve law enforcement responses and prosecution of trafficking cases.
3. Promote transparency in labour recruitment and dismantle exploitative syndicates.
4. Urge the institutionalisation of a robust framework to better protect the rights and welfare of migrant workers.
5. Accelerating the full implementation of the National Action Plan on Anti-Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP 3.0) 2021-2025.
6. Enhancing data collection and public reporting to support evidence-based policymaking and improve accountability.

Human trafficking can only be effectively addressed through a whole of government and whole of society cooperating. Every institution has a role to play, from enforcement and prosecution to rehabilitation and prevention. Crucially, responses must always uphold the dignity, rights and best interest of the victim.

As Malaysia moves forward in building a just and inclusive society, SUHAKAM will continue to speak up against all forms of human trafficking. No person, regardless of status, background or origin, should be treated as invisible. No one deserves to live in bondage.

Let us mark this day not only with words, but through sustained and meaningful action until the chains of exploitation are broken. Human dignity is non-negotiable. Freedom is a right, not a privilege.

-END-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 30 July 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (25 JULAI 2025) Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) merakamkan setinggi-tinggi penghargaan kepada Kerajaan Malaysia, khususnya kepada YB Dato’ Sri Azalina Othman Said, Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Undang-undangdan Reformasi Institusi), atas komitmen berterusan beliau dalam memastikan pembentangan dan perbahasan LaporanTahunan SUHAKAM 2023 berjaya dilaksanakan di Dewan Rakyat pada 24 Julai 2025.

Ini merupakan satu langkah penting ke hadapan dalam memperkukuh mekanisme semak dan imbang institusi serta prinsip ketelusan dan kebertanggungjawaban dalam tadbir urus awam. Seramai 39 Ahli Parlimen telah mengambil bahagian dalam perbahasan ini, mengutarakan pelbagai isu penting berkaitan hak asasi manusia yang meliputi kerangka undang-undang, kebajikan, kesejahteraan sosial dan integriti institusi.

Antara isu utama yang diketengahkan termasuk:

i.     Kelewatan pelantikan Pengerusi dan Pesuruhjaya SUHAKAM, berserta cadangan untuk mempertingkat ketelussan dan keterangkuman dalam proses pemilihan.

ii.    Keadaan daif di lokap dan pusat tahanan, termasuk kematian dalam tahanan, kesesakan, perkhidmatan kesihatan yang tidak mencukupi serta penggunaan sistem ‘bucket’ yang masih digunakan di Papar dan Miri.

iii.   Pelaksanaan penahanan tanpa perbicaraan di bawah Akta Kesalahan Keselamatan (Langkah-Langkah Khas) 2012 (SOSMA), dengan gesaan supaya moratorium dilaksanakan dan penubuhan Mahkamah Khas bagi mempercepatkan proses keadilan.

iv.   Isu hak tanah Orang Asli/Asal, dengan penekanan kepada keperluan mendesak untuk mengiktiraf dan mewartakan tanah adat.

v.    Cabaran kewarganegaraan dan status tanpa kerakyatan, khususnya melibatkan kanak-kanak tidak berdokumen, serta keperluan untuk memperkenalkan unit pendaftaran bergerak oleh agensi kerajaan berkaitan.

vi.   Hak sosio-ekonomi kumpulan rentan termasuk pekerja gig dan e-hailing yang masih belum dilindungi secara menyeluruh di bawah kerangka undang-undang sedia ada.

vii. Diskriminasi kaum, agama dan xenofobia yang berleluasa, yang memerlukan usaha menyeluruh melalui pendidikan inklusif dan dasar kebangsaan.

viii.           Gesaan agar pelaksanaan syor SUHAKAM diperkukuh, termasuk cadangan untuk menubuhkanJawatankuasa Pilihan Khas Parlimen (PSC) bagi memantau tindakan susulan.

SUHAKAM menghargai maklum balas konstruktif dan komitmen daripada pelbagai kementerian serta agensi berkaitan terhadap isu-isu hak asasi manusia yang mendesak. Ini termasuk usaha memperbaiki akses kepada air bersih dan penjagaan kesihatan awam di kawasan pedalaman, memperluas Unit Kesihatan Dalam Tahanan (CHU) di pusat tahanan, mengintegrasikan pendidikan hak asasi manusiayang selaras dengan nilai Islam, serta memperkenalkan reformasi undang-undang dan dasar yang memberi manfaat kepada masyarakat Orang Asli, orang kurang upaya (OKU), dan pekerja ekonomi gig. SUHAKAM turut mengambil maklum sokongan berterusan Malaysia terhadap isu-isu kemanusiaan antarabangsa, terutamanya yang berkaitan dengan konflik di Palestin.

Laporan Tahunan 2023 menekankan tujuh bidang utama iaitu:

1. Hak kanak-kanak, wanita, warga emas, OKU dan komuniti Orang Asli/Asal.

2. Hak banduan dan penahanan yang adil.
3. Isu perkauman, diskriminasi berdasarkan agama dan kebencian.
4. Hak ekonomi, sosial dan kebudayaan (ESCR).
5. Perniagaan dan hak asasi manusia.
6. Reformasi undang-undang serta kerjasama serantau dan antarabangsa.
7. Reformasi institusi dalam SUHAKAM termasuk pendigitalan operasi.

SUHAKAM ingin merakamkan penghargaan khas kepada YB Senator Dato’ Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Naim bin Haji Mokhtar, Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Hal Ehwal Agama), atas komitmen dan sokongan beliau dalam memajukan wacana hak asasi manusia dalam kerangka Islam. Usaha beliau dalam mempromosikankefahaman inklusif dan penyelarasan antara maqasid syariah dan prinsip hak asasi sejagat amat dihargai.

SUHAKAM turut menyampaikan penghargaan istimewa kepada YB Tuan M. Kulasegaran A/L V. Murugeson, Timbalan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Undang-undang dan Reformasi Institusi), atas peenggulungan perbahasan dan dedikasi beliau dalam memajukan agenda hak asasi manusia demi kesejahteraan rakyat Malaysia.

SUHAKAM menegaskan bahawa iltizam politik amat penting, bukan sekadar hanya dalam membentang dan membahas Laporan Tahunan, tetapi pelaksanaan tindakan susulan terhadap isu-isu yang dibangkitkan. Laporan ini berfungsi sebagai platform kepada Parlimen dan semua pihak berkepentingan untuk menyuarakan isu, berkongsi pandangan serta yang paling penting, mendorong tindakan segera oleh agensi kerajaan dalam melaksanakan cadangan SUHAKAM.

Hak asasi manusia pada asasnya berpaksikan maruah, kesaksamaan dan kebertanggungjawaban. SUHAKAM menegaskan bahawa Laporan Tahunan ini bukan sekadar satu keperluan prosedur, tetapi merupakan mekanisma kebertanggungjawaban yang penting dalam menilai kemajuan negara dalam menjunjung hak asasi manusia.

SUHAKAM mengalu-alukan kerjasama berterusan dengan Kerajaan, Ahli Parlimen, organisasi masyarakat sivil dan sektor swasta demi memastikan hak setiap individu di Malaysia dihormati, dilindungi dan dipenuhi.

Untuk maklumat lanjut dan membaca Laporan Tahunan SUHAKAM 2023 sepenuhnya, orang ramai dijemput melayari laman web rasmi SUHAKAM di: https://suhakam.org.my/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Laporan-Tahunan-2023-SUHAKAM.pdf

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia(SUHAKAM)

Tarikh: 25 Julai 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (25 JULY 2025) – SUHAKAM expresses deep concern over the recent spate of bullying cases reported in schools across the country, calling it a ““systemic crisis of child safety” that requires immediate intervention nationwide. The Children’s Commissioner (CC) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), Dr Farah Nini Dusuki, emphasises that school must be the safest place for every child. But recent cases paint a worrying picture of fear, isolation, and violence. These disturbing incidents underscore the urgent need for comprehensive and sustained action to ensure that schools remain safe and nurturing environments for all children.

In just the past week, three serious bullying cases have been reported:

1. On 18 July 2025, a Form 1 female student in Sabah was reported to have jumped from the third floor of her school building, allegedly due to bullying by her peers.
2. On 20 July 2025, in Sungai Petani, Kedah, another Form 1 female student was found tied up in a school toilet. Two 13-year-old students were detained to assist in the investigation.
3. Most recently, on 22 July 2025, a Form 3 male student sustained serious eye injuries after being punched by fellow students.

The Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC) has contacted the Ministry of Education (MOE) to verify whether these cases were being monitored by the relevant authorities. The OCC was informed that the MOE is aware of the incidents and is taking steps to enhance intervention programmes to address bullying at a nationwide level.

While the CC welcomes these efforts, the CC urges the MOE to take more concrete and immediate action. In reviewing the MOE’s Guidelines for Handling Bullying in Schools (launched in 2023), the CC notes provisions requiring engagement between the parents of the bully and the victim. However, the CC questions whether such engagements are being carried out effectively and consistently, and whether proper follow-up is being conducted to ensure accountability and behavioural change.

Furthermore, the Guidelines stipulate the appointment of an investigative teacher for reported cases. The CC raises concerns about whether these teachers are adequately trained to carry out such responsibilities, and whether the current system includes any mechanism for monitoring or oversight. Where bullying has been reported, schools must proactively conduct regular monitoring, especially in high-risk areas such as dormitories, assembly halls, and prefect rooms.

The CC believes that the current mechanisms in place are insufficient. The growing number of cases reflects systemic gaps. According to the MOE’s Sistem Sahsiah Diri Murid, reported school bullying incidents increased from 3,887 cases in 2022 to 5,891 cases in 2023. By October 2024, the figure had already reached 5,703 cases, involving a total of 11,594 students.

The CC calls for urgent and coordinated action from all stakeholders, particularly the MOE. Schools must prioritise student safety and ensure all complaints of bullying are addressed promptly and effectively. At the same time, parents have a critical role in identifying signs of bullying and reporting such incidents to both the school and the authorities. Parents must reject the outdated notion that bullying is a “rite of passage” to build resilience and instead cultivate open and supportive communication with their children.

The CC reiterates that every child has the right to feel safe at school. It is the collective duty of educators, parents, authorities, and the wider community to ensure that this right is fully upheld.

-END-

Dr Farah Nini Dusuki
Children’s Commissioner
The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) 

Date: 25 July 2025