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KUALA LUMPUR (16 October 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its deep concern over the recent reports of violence, bullying, sexual assault, and gender-based killings involving girls in Malaysia, including cases in Sabah, Melaka, Selangor, and Kedah.

These incidents, including gang rapes and fatal acts of violence that amount to femicide, expose a grave reality: children, particularly girls, continue to be failed by the very protection systems and social structures meant to keep them safe. Schools, communities, and even online spaces that should nurture learning, trust, and growth are increasingly becoming sites of fear, victimisation, and harm. This situation is not only a national tragedy but a serious violation of children’s rights, dignity, and equality.

Malaysia’s commitments under the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and Article 8(2) of the Federal Constitution, which prohibits gender discrimination, must translate into real and effective protection on the ground. Yet, persistent gaps in enforcement, coordination, and societal awareness continue to leave girls vulnerable to gender-based violence, sexual exploitation, and public humiliation, both offline and online.

SUHAKAM therefore calls for:

1. The establishment of coordinated national data on gender-based and child-targeted violence, including femicide, to inform evidence-based and gender-responsive policy interventions.
2. Each relevant Ministry, including the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (MWFCD), the Ministry of Education (MoE), and the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) to appoint gender and child protection focal points to ensure timely, survivor-centred, and trauma-informed responses.
3. All schools to be safe and inclusive environments, through stronger anti-bullying and anti-harassment policies and enforcement, confidential reporting mechanisms, and comprehensive education on gender equality, respect, and consent.
4. The media and the public to uphold ethical standards by refraining from publishing, circulating, or discussing material that could identify children involved in criminal or sensitive cases.

Malaysia’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5 (Gender Equality) and Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), requires urgent and coordinated action to ensure that girls and all children live free from violence, discrimination, and exploitation.

As the world recently observed the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11, Malaysia must move beyond commemoration and take decisive action to safeguard its girls, not only from physical and sexual violence, but also from the indignity of public exposure, online shaming, and the escalating threat of femicide. Protecting children’s rights means protecting their identities, safety, and dignity, both offline and online. Every girl has the right to live free from gender-based violence, including femicide, and to grow in environments that uphold her equality, autonomy, and respect.

-END–

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 16 October 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (10 October 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) joins the global community in commemorating the World Day Against the Death Penalty, observed annually on 10 October, to reaffirm the universal call for the protection of the right to life and the abolition of capital punishment.

This year’s observance, however, carries a profound sense of sorrow as two Malaysian citizens were recently executed by hanging in Singapore following their convictions for drug-related offences. Before the recent execution, SUHAKAM had written to the High Commissioner of Singapore in Malaysia, appealing for a postponement and reconsideration of the sentence, in line with the international appeal for restraint, mercy, and respect for the sanctity of life.

The global movement towards abolition continues to gain strength, with more than two-thirds of countries worldwide having abolished the death penalty in law or ceased its use in practice. Malaysia’s own progress, including the abolition of the mandatory death penalty and the ongoing reforms to review capital punishment policies, reflects a significant and commendable step forward. However, the path towards full abolition remains incomplete.

The enduring question remains whether the world can one day be free from the death penalty. SUHAKAM firmly believes that this is possible, but it requires more than political will. It calls for moral courage, public education, and a justice system grounded in humanity and fairness. True justice cannot be achieved through punishment that extinguishes life, but it must be built on principles of proportionality, rehabilitation, and respect for human dignity.

SUHAKAM reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the total abolition of the death penalty, in line with international human rights norms and the right to life guaranteed under the Federal Constitution. The Commission reiterates that a justice system that is humane and rights-based is the only system that can truly deliver lasting justice.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 10 October 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (4 OCTOBER 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) refers to the media coverage concerning its planned visit to Ba Data Bila, Ulu Baram, and wishes to provide the following clarification.

SUHAKAM wishes to highlight that the investigation being conducted in Ulu Baram is distinct and separate from the judicial review proceedings currently before the Miri High Court, as suggested in the news report citing the Sarawak Forestry Department published by Utusan Sarawak on 2 October 2025.

The investigation in Ulu Baram was initiated following complaints received by SUHAKAM’s Sarawak Office regarding alleged human rights violations. This is in line with Section 14(1) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999, which empowers SUHAKAM to investigate complaints relating to human rights. In this regard, Section 12(3) of the same Act is not applicable in this case. The investigation aims to gather views from multiple stakeholders to ensure fairness and balance.

Regarding the postponement of SUHAKAM’s visit to Ba Data Bila, prior notice of the intended meeting and investigative visit was formally communicated to the Village Headman (Ketua Kaum) of Ba Data Bila through an official letter. Copies of this letter were also furnished to the Long Lama Sub-District Office and the Telang Usan District Office.

Initially, the Village Headman of Ba Data Bila expressed no objection to SUHAKAM’s visit. However, before the scheduled date, he requested for the visit to be deferred until after the conclusion of the judicial review proceedings before the Miri High Court on 30 October 2025. SUHAKAM respected and acceded to this request.

In view of the above, SUHAKAM reiterates that its visit to Ulu Baram is solely related to complaints of human rights violations received by its Sarawak Office and does not concern or interfere with the subject matter of any ongoing court proceedings. Moving forward, SUHAKAM will continue to engage with relevant agencies to ensure that the issues raised are addressed comprehensively and effectively.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 4 October 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (3 OKTOBER 2025) – Pejabat Pesuruhjaya Kanak-kanak (OCC), SUHAKAM menggesa Kerajaan Malaysia agar memastikan Belanjawan 2026 mengambil pendekatan berorientasikan kanak-kanak, di mana peruntukan disalurkan khusus kepada kelangsungan hidup, perlindungan, pembangunan, dan penyertaan kanak-kanak. Selaras dengan obligasi Malaysia di bawah Konvensyen Mengenai Hak Kanak-kanak (UNCRC), belanjawan negara mestilah menyediakan pelaburan konkrit bagi menjamin hak kanak-kanak dan masa depan negara.

Komitmen yang kukuh diperlukan untuk memperkukuh inisiatif Sekolah Selamat. Ini termasuk peruntukan yang mencukupi bagi membaik pulih dan menaik taraf kemudahan sekolah serta alatan pembelajaran yang usang, memastikan sekolah di seluruh negara mencapai piawaian keselamatan, dan membiayai usaha advokasi anti-buli. Sekolah juga mesti menyediakan persekitaran yang selamat untuk kesejahteraan mental dan emosi. Belanjawan 2026 wajar memperluaskan pelaburan dalam perkhidmatan kesihatan mental kanak-kanak dengan menambah bilangan kaunselor dan psikologi di kawasan berkeperluan tinggi, menyediakan talian bantuan kesihatan mental yang mudah dicapai oleh golongan muda, serta membangunkan program kesedaran kepada ibu bapa, guru, dan murid bagi mengurangkan stigma serta membina budaya prihatin.

Perlindungan kanak-kanak daripada keganasan, penderaan, eksploitasi, dan amalan berbahaya juga perlu menjadi keutamaan belanjawan. Lebih banyak sumber diperlukan untuk pegawai perlindungan kanak-kanak, pekerja sosial, rumah perlindungan, serta program pencegahan yang menangani keganasan terhadap kanak-kanak. Turut sama penting ialah memperkukuh perkhidmatan dan sumber bagi perlindungan kanak-kanak untuk perlaksanaan sepenuhnya Akta Kanak-kanak 2001 (Akta 611), yang telah lama tertangguh. Tanpa peruntukan yang mencukupi, kanak-kanak akan terus terdedah kepada pelbagai bentuk bahaya dan kemudaratan yang menjejaskan hak dan maruah mereka.

Keperluan mendesak yang lain ialah menamatkan kemiskinan kanak-kanak dan menyokong keluarga yang kurang berkemampuan. Kemiskinan terus memberi kesan buruk terhadap pendidikan, kesihatan, dan menjejaskan peluang masa depan kanak-kanak. Belanjawan 2026 seharusnya memperkukuh perlindungan sosial untuk kanak-kanak dengan meningkatkan bantuan kewangan kepada keluarga berpendapatan rendah dan memperluaskan akses kepada makanan berkhasiat di sekolah untuk murid yang memerlukan.

Kesihatan dan pemakanan kanak-kanak juga menuntut pelaburan yang lebih besar. Belanjawan 2026 wajar memperkukuh program pemakanan untuk kanak-kanak kecil, menyokong perkhidmatan kesihatan berasaskan sekolah, dan memperluaskan fasiliti penjagaan kesihatan primer di kawasan yang kurang mendapat liputan. Usaha menangani masalah kekurangan zat makanan dan obesiti, bersama dengan langkah pencegahan kesihatan, akan membantu Malaysia melahirkan generasi yang lebih sihat dan berdaya saing untuk mencapai potensi penuh mereka.

Kesimpulannya, OCC menegaskan bahawa Belanjawan 2026 adalah peluang penting bagi Malaysia untuk menunjukkan komitmen yang tulen terhadap hak kanak-kanak. Setiap ringgit yang diperuntukkan untuk kanak-kanak adalah pelaburan dalam membina Malaysia yang lebih kukuh, selamat, dan berdaya tahan. Pelaburan terhadap kanak-kanak mesti menjadi keutamaan tertinggi negara.

-TAMAT-

Pejabat Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak (OCC)
Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) 

Tarikh: 3 Oktober 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (27 September 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) warmly congratulates the six newly appointed Commissioners, whose term will run until 19 August 2028. The new Commissioners are:

1. YBhg. Datuk Mary @ Mariati Robert
2. Tuan Dahim Anak Nadot
3. Puan Bathmavathi a/p K. Krishnan
4. YBhg. Dato’ Ahmad Azam bin Ab Rahman
5. YBhg. Datuk Tay Lee Ly
6. Tuan Abdul Kadir Jailani bin Ismail

These appointments by His Majesty Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong, upon the advice of the Prime Minister under section 5 of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 [Act 597], reflect the Government’s commitment to strengthening SUHAKAM’s role as Malaysia’s national human rights institution in line with the Paris Principles.

With their wealth of professional experience, knowledge, and longstanding service in various fields, SUHAKAM is confident that the new Commissioners will bring fresh perspectives, renewed energy, and strong leadership to the Commission. The diversity of their backgrounds reflects the breadth of Malaysian society and strengthens SUHAKAM’s ability to address a wide range of human rights concerns at both national and international levels.

SUHAKAM looks forward to working collectively with the new Commissioners to further strengthen our role as an independent national human rights institution. We will continue to carry out our mandates and be critical in addressing emerging human rights challenges, including the protection of vulnerable groups, the advancement of economic, social, and cultural rights, the promotion of civil and political freedoms, and the strengthening of institutional reforms in line with Malaysia’s international commitments.

SUHAKAM reaffirms its commitment to promoting justice, equality, dignity, and respect for the rights of all persons in Malaysia and will continue to play an influential role in shaping a more just and inclusive society.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 27 September 2025

(KUALA LUMPUR) 22 SEPTEMBER 2025 – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) notes with concern over recent reports that the president of University of Malaya Association of New Youth (UMANY) is under police investigation for statements he had made in the course of the Association’s activities. It was reported that he had suggested that the matriculation system be replaced by STPM as the sole standard for admission into public universities. One may agree or disagree with his view, but it is far-fetched to say that his statement is the subject of a crime and deserves investigation under section 505(b) of the Penal Code.

SUHAKAM wishes to reiterate here that freedom of speech and expression is a fundamental right guaranteed under Article 10 of the Federal Constitution and remains an essential part of Malaysia’s democratic framework. This right is also enshrined in international human rights standards, including Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Whilst 174 countries have already ratified or acceded to the ICCPR, Malaysia, sadly, has yet to be a party to this International Covenant. SUHAKAM has consistently advocated for Malaysia’s accession to the ICCPR, and for national laws and practices to align with these universal principles. By doing so, it would signal Malaysia’s strong commitment to human rights and strengthen its democratic institutions.

Student organisations and youth groups play a vital role in shaping democratic discourse by bringing new perspectives, asking difficult questions, and contributing to constructive debate. Their voices, regardless their political views,  should be protected and encouraged, as they represent an important part of Malaysia’s future leadership and democratic growth. Silencing or discouraging their participation risks weakening civic engagement at a time when inclusive dialogue is most needed. Moreover, as had been said by Justice Hishamudin Yunus in the landmark Court of Appeal case of Muhammad Hilman Idham & Ors v. Kerajaan Malaysia [2011] 9 CLJ 50 –

“Universities should be the breeding ground of reformers and thinkers, and not institutions to produce students trained as robots”.

We wish to add here that scholarship cannot flourish in an atmosphere of suspicion and distrust.

SUHAKAM recognises the important role of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) in maintaining public order and safety. However, SUHAKAM is of the view that investigations involving matters of expression should be conducted with sensitivity, proportionality, and respect for constitutional guarantees. Hence, SUHAKAM advocates that it is high time that the PDRM and other enforcement agencies cease practising the stereotyped approach often perceived as being anti-human rights; and instead adopt a matured and professional rights-based approach in such matters. A matured and professional rights-based approach will help to strengthen public confidence and public respect in law enforcement institutions whilst ensuring that the space for open dialogue remains safeguarded.

SUHAKAM reiterates its long-standing position that freedom of expression is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy. We urge all parties to work together to foster an environment where diverse voices, especially those of youth, can be expressed openly and constructively in the spirit of building for a more tolerant, democratic and rights-respecting Malaysia.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 22 September 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (25 JULY 2025) The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) extends its sincere appreciation to the Government of Malaysia, particularly YB Dato’ Sri Azalina Othman Said, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform), for her continued commitment in ensuring the successful presentation and debate of SUHAKAM’s 2023 Annual Report in the Dewan Rakyat on 24 July 2025.

This marks a significant step forward in strengthening institutional checks and balances and reinforcing the principles of transparency and accountability in public governance. A total of 39 Members of Parliament participated in the debate, raising critical human rights concerns spanning legal frameworks, welfare, social well-being, and institutional integrity.

Among the key issues highlighted were:

1. The delay in the appointment of SUHAKAM’s Chairperson and Commissioners, along with proposals to enhance transparency and inclusivity in the selection process.
2. Deplorable conditions in lockups and detention centres, including deaths in custody, overcrowding, inadequate medical services, and outdated facilities, such as the continued use of the bucket system in Papar and Miri.
3. The continued use of prolonged detention without trial under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA), with calls for a moratorium and the establishment of a Special Court to expedite justice.
4. Issues relating to Indigenous land rights, with emphasis on the urgent need to recognise and gazette native customary lands.
5. Citizenship and statelessness challenges, particularly affecting undocumented children, and the need for mobile registration units by relevant government agencies.
6. The socioeconomic rights of vulnerable groups, including gig and e-hailing workers, who remain inadequately protected under current legal frameworks.
7. The prevalence of racial, religious, and xenophobic discrimination, which require comprehensive responses through inclusive education and national policies.
8. Calls for enhanced implementation of SUHAKAM’s recommendations, including a proposal for the establishment of a Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) to monitor follow-up actions.

SUHAKAM also acknowledges the constructive responses and commitments from various ministries and agencies on pressing human rights matters. These include efforts to improve access to clean water and public healthcare in remote areas, expand the Custodial Health Unit (CHU) in detention centres, incorporate human rights education aligned with Islamic values, and introduce legal and policy reforms benefiting Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and gig economy workers. SUHAKAM further notes Malaysia’s continued support for international humanitarian causes, particularly in relation to Palestine.

The 2023 Annual Report highlights seven core areas of focus:

1. The rights of children, women, older persons, PWDs, and Indigenous communities.
2. The rights of prisoners and fair detention practices.
3. Issues of racial, religious, and hate-based discrimination.
4. Economic, social, and cultural rights (ESCR).
5. Business and human rights.
6. Legal reform and regional as well as international cooperation.
7. Institutional reform within SUHAKAM, including the digitalisation of operations.

SUHAKAM wishes to record its special appreciation to YB Senator Dato’ Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Naim bin Haji Mokhtar, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), for his commitment and support in advancing the discourse on human rights within the Islamic framework. His efforts in promoting inclusive understanding and alignment between maqasid syariah and universal human rights principles are deeply valued.

SUHAKAM expresses its special gratitude to YB Tuan M. Kulasegaran A/L V. Murugeson, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform), for concluding the debate and for his unwavering dedication to advancing the human rights agenda for the benefit of all Malaysians.

SUHAKAM reiterates that political will is essential, not only to table the Annual Report but to meaningfully debate and to take necessary actions on the issues raised. The report serves as a platform for Parliament and all stakeholders to express concerns, share insights, and most importantly, drive tangible actions by relevant government agencies in implementing SUHAKAM’s recommendations.

Human rights are fundamentally revolving around dignity, equality, and accountability. SUHAKAM stresses that the Annual Report is not merely a procedural requirement, but a vital accountability mechanism to assess national progress in upholding human rights.

SUHAKAM welcomes continued collaboration with the Government, Parliament, civil society, and the private sector to ensure that the rights of all individuals in Malaysia are respected, protected, and fulfilled.

For more information and to read the full SUHAKAM 2023 Annual Report, the public is invited to visit SUHAKAM’s official website at: https://suhakam.org.my/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Laporan-Tahunan-2023-SUHAKAM.pdf

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The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 25 JULY 2025

Oleh: Sarah Adibah Hamzah
Pemangku Ketua Bahagian Undang-undang dan Triti Antarabangsa
SUHAKAM

Akses kepada kemudahan awam bukan satu keistimewaan – ia adalah hak asasi. Namun realitinya, ramai Orang Kurang Upaya (OKU) di Malaysia masih bergelut dengan pelbagai cabaran akses dalam kehidupan harian – daripada pengangkutan awam dan ruang rekreasi, sehinggalah ke peluang pekerjaan. Walaupun Konvensyen Mengenai Hak Orang Kurang Upaya (CRPD), Akta OKU 2008 dan Undang-Undang Kecil Bangunan Seragam (UKBS) telah memperuntukkan hak tersebut, pelaksanaannya masih belum menyeluruh.

Pengenalan Isu
Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) melihat isu ini sebagai keutamaan dalam usaha membina bandar yang benar-benar inklusif. Sejak Ogos 2024, SUHAKAM telah menjalankan tinjauan audit hak asasi ke atas Pihak Berkuasa Tempatan (PBT) di seluruh Semenanjung Malaysia untuk menilai tahap pelaksanaan hak asasi di peringkat akar umbi.

Forum Kerajaan Tempatan: Jaminan Akses dan Hak
Sebahagian dapatan dan perbincangan penting ini telah dikongsi dalam program “Forum Kerajaan Tempatan: Jaminan Akses dan Hak” anjuran SUHAKAM pada 20–21 Mei 2025. Dalam ucapannya, Pesuruhjaya SUHAKAM, Puan Nazira Abd Rahim, menekankan bahawa peranan PBT adalah selari dengan mandat hak asasi manusia – memastikan semua lapisan masyarakat termasuk OKU mendapat peluang dan akses yang setara. Katanya, hak akses OKU tidak boleh lagi dilihat hanya dari sudut fasiliti fizikal seperti ramp, tandas, tempat letak kenderaan semata-mata sebaliknya perlu meliputi aspek pendidikan, teknologi, pengangkutan, maklumat dan ruang ibadah.

YBhg. Dato’ Mohd Fadli Mohd Kenali, Ketua Pengarah Jabatan Kerajaan Tempatan (JKT), pula menyatakan bahawa PBT perlu berperanan bukan sahaja sebagai pentadbir pembangunan, tetapi juga sebagai ejen perubahan sosial. Katanya, infrastruktur mesra OKU adalah satu kemestian, bukan pilihan, dan kerjasama pelbagai pihak adalah asas untuk mencapai aspirasi Malaysia MADANI.

YB Mohd Azlan Helmi, EXCO Komunikasi, Multimedia dan NGO Negeri Perak pula mengiktiraf bahawa cabaran utama PBT termasuk kekangan kewangan, kesan perubahan iklim dan peningkatan kos. Walau bagaimanapun, ini tidak boleh dijadikan alasan untuk mengabaikan golongan rentan seperti OKU dan warga emas. Beliau mencadangkan penyelesaian kreatif seperti kerjasama swasta, pelancongan komuniti dan inovasi teknologi.

Majlis Perbandaran Manjung: Inklusiviti Melangkaui Infrastruktur
Hasil daripada tinjauan pada Ogos 2024, SUHAKAM mendapati Majlis Perbandaran Manjung (MPM) bukan sahaja menyediakan kemudahan fizikal mesra OKU, tetapi turut menganjurkan program sosial inklusif berskala nasional dan antarabangsa.

Semasa forum tersebut, wakil MPM, Ts. Mohd Rohaizan bin Abd Aris turut berkongsi bahawa pada September 2023, MPM telah menjadi tuan rumah kepada Program Sukan Komuniti Orang Kurang Upaya (SUKOM-OKU) Manjung 2023. Program tersebut julung kali diadakan merupakan anjuran Majlis Paralimpik Malaysia, sempena Hari Malaysia. MPM merupakan PBT pertama dipilih sebagai tuan rumah acara ini, dengan sokongan daripada MKBOKU, KPKT dan KBS. Program ini bukan sahaja mengetengahkan penyertaan aktif OKU dalam sukan komuniti, tetapi membuktikan bahawa sukan mampu menjadi ruang untuk memperkasa, membina keyakinan dan memecah stigma sosial.

MPM juga telah terpilih sebagai antara tiga PBT oleh UNDP Malaysia (selain Mersing dan Sipitang) dalam program khas pemulihan sistem pelancongan pasca pandemik COVID-19. Melalui pemilihan ini, MPM membuka peluang kepada NGO tempatan untuk mencadangkan projek yang inklusif dan berimpak. Salah satu projek yang berjaya diketengahkan ialah PULIH ART – program yang memfokuskan kepada memperkasakan pelajar OKU dalam eko-pelancongan melalui seni visual.

Program ini melibatkan pelajar pendidikan khas dari SK Seri Bayu (umur 6–12 tahun) yang dibawa ke lokasi pemuliharaan alam semula jadi dan terlibat dalam aktiviti seperti:
• Pelepasan anak penyu ke laut,
• Lawatan ke pusat konservasi,
• Bengkel seni visual dikendalikan oleh NGO LAKAR di Laman Karya Lumut,
• Hasil seni seperti akrilik, kolaj dan diorama berinspirasikan penyu — dengan tiga karya terbaik dipilih untuk menghargai kreativiti pelajar.

Program lain yang turut dilaksanakan bersama UNDP termasuk:
• LAKAR – pencucian dan pembersihan laut,
• KUASA – pemeliharaan kawasan paya bakau.

Semua ini membuktikan bahawa MPM bukan sekadar membina infrastruktur, tetapi membina budaya inklusiviti dan pemberdayaan OKU secara holistik.

Inovasi Lain oleh MPM
MPM turut berkongsi inovasi yang dilaksanakan, antaranya
• Bollard Mesra Wheelchair (BMW) – membenarkan laluan kerusi roda tetapi menghalang motosikal memasuki taman awam.
• Tempat letak kereta khas, ramp berspesifikasi MS 1184, laluan terus ke padang, dan tandas khas OKU.
• Pelekat kenderaan percuma dan diskaun 50% untuk keluarga yang menjaga OKU.
• Tindakan tegas ke atas penyalahgunaan kemudahan OKU, termasuk oleh kakitangan sendiri.

Dari segi pembangunan sosial:
• Program SUKOM-OKU Manjung, forum eko-pelancongan OKU bersama UNDP dan NGO seperti PULIH ART, LAKAR dan KUASA.
• Projek seni visual melibatkan pelajar OKU pendidikan khas dan aktiviti luar seperti pelepasan anak penyu serta kelas seni di Laman Karya Lumut.

MPM juga berjaya memperoleh pengiktirafan Bandar Mesra OKU melalui usaha Jabatan Perancangannya.

Dapatan Lawatan Lapangan SUHAKAM
Sebagai sebahagian daripada audit hak akses, SUHAKAM turut menjalankan lawatan ke Terminal Amanjaya (Ipoh), rumah ibadat (Masjid Ubudiah dan Gereja St. John Anglican), lokasi pelancongan seperti Kellie’s Castle dan Istana Kenangan, serta pusat kraftangan persendirian iaitu KZ Kraf Enterprise.

Antara pemerhatian:
• Terminal Amanjaya menyediakan laluan tactile, kaunter khas dengan petugas mahir bahasa isyarat, dan kemudahan naik bas mesra OKU.
• Rumah ibadat masih memerlukan sokongan seperti kitab braille dan jurubahasa isyarat untuk khutbah Jumaat.
• Tempat pelancongan warisan menghadapi cabaran struktur dan status pemuliharaan yang mengehadkan akses OKU – justeru SUHAKAM mencadangkan pendekatan kreatif atau teknologi untuk menjadikan tempat-tempat ini lebih mesra OKU.
• KZ Kraf belum pernah menggaji pekerja OKU tetapi telah menerima lawatan kanak-kanak OKU Pemulihan Dalam Komuniti (PDK). Selain daripada menyediakan latihan kemahiran kepada kanak-kanak OKU, perusahaan ini berpotensi untuk mewujudkan peluang pekerjaan khusus kepada komuniti OKU.

Seruan Bertindak
Sungguhpun wujud dasar dan undang-undang yang baik, kejayaan sebenar pembinaan bandar inklusif hanya akan dicapai apabila pelaksanaan dilakukan secara menyeluruh, konsisten dan berpaksikan hak asasi manusia. SUHAKAM menyeru agar dapatan forum ini tidak hanya kekal sebagai wacana, tetapi diterjemah kepada dasar, tindakan dan pembaharuan di peringkat tempatan.

Kejayaan MPM membuktikan bahawa inovasi, semangat kepimpinan dan kolaborasi antara kerajaan, NGO dan komuniti adalah penting ke arah negara yang inklusif. Jelas daripada perkongsian daripada MPM ini membuktikan bahawa kejayaan mewujudkan bandar mesra OKU bukan bergantung semata-mata kepada dana atau undang-undang, tetapi juga, kepimpinan berwawasan di peringkat PBT, gabungan kerjasama antara kerajaan, NGO dan komuniti, dan penerapan inovasi reka bentuk sejagat secara menyeluruh. Ianya juga menekankan pentingnya, koordinasi dasar antara agensi, pemantauan menggunakan piawaian antarabangsa WHO dan pengiktirafan kepada PBT yang mengambil langkah berani dan kreatif.

Pada akhirnya, kemajuan sesebuah bandar bukan hanya diukur melalui bangunannya yang tinggi atau jalannya yang luas, tetapi keupayaannya untuk memastikan tiada seorang pun warganya terpinggir daripada akses yang adil dan saksama.

KUALA LUMPUR (5 JUNE 2025) – The Children’s Commissioner (CC) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM, expresses deep sadness and concern over the tragic death of a seven-year-old girl who fell from the 29th floor of a condominium in Puchong, Subang Jaya, on 21 May 2025. This devastating incident occurred just four days after a two-year-old boy was found dead after falling from the 7th floor of an apartment in Precinct 9, Putrajaya.

These back-to-back tragedies are not isolated accidents. They are preventable deaths that starkly expose the failure to implement essential safety measures in high-rise residential buildings. These children did not have to die. Their loss is a direct consequence of a systemic failure to prioritize child safety where it matters most: at home.

As a State Party to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), Malaysia is duty-bound to protect every child’s right to life, development, and protection from foreseeable harm. A safe home environment is not a luxury. Providing a safe home environment is a legal and moral obligation.

The CC urges the Government (Federal and States) and relevant stakeholders to take urgent action by implementing the following measures to prevent further tragedies:

1.         Legislation and Safety Regulations

The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) should enact specific laws to enhance child safety in high-rise residential buildings. This includes making it mandatory for all apartment and flat units, including rental units, to be equipped with safety grilles or protective mesh on windows and balconies. Additionally, minimum safety design standards for child-friendly high-rise units must be established under existing building laws or regulations.

2.         Mandatory Child-Safety Design Standards

KPKT and local authorities (PBT) must review current building design guidelines to ensure child safety considerations are integrated as mandatory requirements in all high-rise residential developments.

3.         Public Awareness and Education Campaigns

Non-governmental organisations (NGOs), Joint Management Bodies (JMBs) and Management Bodies/Corporations of all high-rise buildings should spearhead public awareness campaigns on home safety, targeting parents, caregivers, and communities. These educational efforts should be incorporated into community health programmes and disseminated through health visitors, particularly, to households with young children.

4.         Regular and Strict Compliance Inspections

PBT must conduct regular inspections of high-rise residential units, especially rental properties, to ensure compliance with child safety standards and features.

These deaths were not accidents—they were preventable. The absence of basic safety features in high-rise homes directly contributed to the loss of these young lives. This is unacceptable in any society that claims to uphold children’s rights.

SUHAKAM calls upon all actors—Federal and State Governments, local authorities, developers, JMBs, Management Bodies/Corporations and communities—to take immediate and unified action. Homes must not be high-risk zones for children; they must be places of safety, protection, and dignity.

To all parents, while we push for reforms to take place, in the meantime, vigilance is key. If you live in a high-rise residence, never leave young children unattended, and ensure safety measures are installed. Let us do all we can to prevent further loss of innocent lives.

-END-

Dr Farah Nini Dusuki

Children’s Commissioner 

5 JUNE 2025