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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.

-END-

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

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

KUALA LUMPUR (3 June 2025) – SUHAKAM is urgently calling upon the Government to develop and implement a comprehensive national action plan, alongside explicit constitutional recognition, to safeguard the rights of the Indigenous Peoples. These communities have for decades endured systemic neglect, marginalisation, and violations of their fundamental rights, particularly concerning land, identity, and socio-economic inclusion.

As a core recommendation, SUHAKAM reiterates its calls for the establishment of an Independent National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, in line with Recommendation 18 of the National Inquiry into the Land Rights of Indigenous Peoples (National Inquiry). This proposed Commission must be empowered to advise the Government on laws and policies relating to Indigenous Peoples.  In addition, this Commission, as recommended, must propose and monitor sustainable development programmes on Indigenous Peoples’ land; promote participation of Indigenous Peoples at all levels; and conduct research on issues related to the well-being of Indigenous Peoples. The Commission must be composed predominantly of representatives from indigenous communities, selected through transparent consultation and with the endorsement of Indigenous Peoples across Malaysia. This will ensure that the Commission reflects the voices and aspirations of the communities it is meant to serve and affirms the principle of self-determination.

Simultaneously, SUHAKAM reiterates the urgent need for a comprehensive and independent review of the Aboriginal Peoples Act 1954 and the Jabatan Kemajuan Orang Asli (JAKOA), as outlined in Recommendation 14 of the National Inquiry, transforming the JAKOA into a rights-based institution that can provide effective support and protection to the Orang Asli. As the primary federal agency addressing Orang Asli affairs, JAKOA must be reformed to respond to contemporary human rights needs, and not merely to deliver welfare. 

As part of the broader constitutional reform agenda, SUHAKAM calls for the amendment of Article 153 of the Federal Constitution to explicitly recognise the Orang Asli as being entitled to the same constitutional safeguards and affirmative action measures afforded to other indigenous communities in Malaysia, that is to say, the Malays and the Natives of Sabah and Sarawak. This recognition is vital in ensuring that the rights, identities, and entitlements of the Orang Asli are no longer subject to administrative ambiguity or exclusion.

Despite the Government’s acceptance of 17 out of 18 recommendations of the SUHAKAM’s landmark National Inquiry, implementation has remained slow and fragmented. SUHAKAM, therefore, calls for the immediate revival of the Special Cabinet Committee on Indigenous Rights, with specific timelines for implementation, progress monitoring, and periodic public reporting.

SUHAKAM also highlights the critical need to harmonise Federal and State policies, especially regarding the gazettement and legal protection of ancestral and customary lands. The lack of harmonisation of policies has placed indigenous communities in precarious conditions, with frequent reports of displacements, loss of livelihoods, and prolonged disputes. The Federal and State

Governments, as custodians of the Indigenous Peoples’ lands and natural resources, have a solemn responsibility to ensure that the Indigenous Peoples have their land rights protected through clear, consistent, and enforceable policies. This obligation is consistent with Article 8(2) of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), which calls on States to prevent and provide redress for actions aimed at dispossessing Indigenous Peoples of their lands, territories, or resources.

The Government of Malaysia must act as the guardian of the Indigenous Peoples by aligning national laws with international human rights instruments, including the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the International Labour Organization Convention No. 169, both of which affirm the right of Indigenous Peoples to free, prior, informed consent (FPIC), the preservation of their cultures, lands, and institutions.

Finally, SUHAKAM insists that any legislation, policy or programme undertaken must include the direct and meaningful participation of indigenous communities and civil society actors. Without their inputs, any reforms-initiated risk being ineffective or rejected by the very communities they are intended to serve.

SUHAKAM remains committed to engaging with all relevant stakeholders to advance the recommendations of the National Inquiry and to ensure the protection and promotion of the rights of the Indigenous Peoples in Malaysia.

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The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)Date: 3 June 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (23 MEI 2025) – Berdasarkan kuasa di bawah Akta Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia 1999 (Akta 597), Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) akan menjalankan siasatan awam terhadap dakwaan pencabulan hak asasi manusia berhubung insiden 17 Januari 2025 di Penjara Taiping, Perak, yang membawa kepada kematian seorang banduan yang berada dalam tahanan.

Siasatan itu bertujuan mengesahkan jika ada terdapat sebarang pelanggaran hak asasi manusia berkaitan insiden tersebut selain tujuan berikut:

(i) untuk mengenal pasti jenis dan sejauh mana pelanggaran berlaku.

(ii) untuk mengkaji bagaimana dan mengapa pelanggaran tersebut berlaku.

(iii) untuk menentukan pihak yang bertanggungjawab terhadap pelanggaran

(iv) untuk mengenalpasti lagkah pencegahan untuk mengelakkan kejadian serupa berulang

Berikut merupakan barisan panel siasatan:

(i)         Dato’ Seri Hishamudin Yunus – Pengerusi SUHAKAM merangkap Pengerusi panel siasatan.

(ii)        Datuk Mariati Robert – Pesuruhjaya SUHAKAM

(iii)       Dr Farah Nini Dusuki – Pesuruhjaya SUHAKAM

Perbicaraan awam itu akan diadakan di Pusat Koreksional Kamunting (KEMTA), Kamunting, Perak, dan dijadualkan berlangsung dalam dua fasa: dari 9 hingga 12 Jun 2025 dan dari 23 hingga 26 Jun 2025. Tarikh tambahan akan diumumkan sekiranya panel merasakan adanya keperluan untuk berbuat demikian.

Orang ramai dan media yang ingin menghadiri prosiding adalah dialu-alukan dengan mengisi pautan pra-pendaftaran di Kod QR berikut:

Untuk sebarang pertanyaan, boleh hubungi Puan Norashikin Hamzah, bahagian Media dan Promosi di Alamat emel shikin@suhakam.org.my atau 019-6215336 dan Encik Safrizaman Mohammad at safrizaman@suhakam.org.my

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The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 23 MAY 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (3 MAY 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) refers to the publication of the Malaysia Racism Report 2024 by Pusat KOMAS in March 2025. The report provides valuable insights into the ongoing challenges of racism and racial discrimination in Malaysia. The report serves as a timely reminder that, despite 68 years of independence, sadly, the roots of racism and racial discrimination remain deeply embedded in our institutions, public discourse and societal attitudes.

SUHAKAM believes it is both important and urgent to address the growing concerns surrounding racial harmony and discrimination in Malaysia. In line with SUHAKAM’s mandate to promote awareness and advocate for human rights, this statement serves as both a salutary reminder and a call to action for all Malaysians to unite in addressing the persistent issues of racism and discrimination.

Malaysia is a nation built on diversity. Our multicultural and multi-religious heritage is not a weakness but a strength; one that must be nurtured with understanding, mutual respect and a shared commitment to equality. Racial harmony is not merely a national aspiration, it is an essential foundation for national unity, sustainable development and happiness.

SUHAKAM remains steadfast in its stand that racism in any form whether institutional, cultural, or interpersonal has no place in modern Malaysia. Racial discrimination breeds inequality, resentment and division. It undermines the dignity of individuals and communities and erodes the social fabric that binds our nation.

The Federal Constitution offers clear and valuable guidance on the principles of equality and justice. For instance, Article 8 declares that all persons are equal before the law and entitled to equal protection of the law, regardless of race or religion. Article 12 further reinforces the right to equality by affirming the right to non-discrimination in any educational institution maintained by a public authority, thereby fostering an environment where every citizen has equal access to education.

These constitutional guarantees are reflected in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), to which Malaysia is committed, to the extent that its provisions are consistent with the Federal Constitution. Article 1 of the UDHR states that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.

SUHAKAM recognises that meaningful progress requires more than statements of intent. It demands sustained commitment from all sectors of society government, civil society, political leaders, media practitioners, educators and ordinary Malaysians. Everyone has a role in rejecting hate speech and divisive rhetoric. Everyone has a role in upholding inclusive values and promoting policies that enhance equality and justice.

In this regard, SUHAKAM respectfully urges the Government to introduce a National Harmony Act, a dedicated legislative framework aimed at fostering mutual respect, promoting inclusivity and protecting all communities from hate speech, incitement and discrimination.

We call on all stakeholders to continue engaging in constructive dialogue, implementing educational and policy reforms, and cultivating empathy and understanding across communities. By doing so, we can lay the groundwork for a more just, equitable and united Malaysia.

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The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 3 May 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (17 APRIL 2025)   –   The Children’s Commissioner (CC) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), is appalled over the low penalties imposed by the Courts on two individuals arrested for possession of 50,000 files of obscene objects/child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The two individuals pleaded guilty under Section 292 of the Penal Code and were fined RM3,000 and RM6,000 by the Petaling Jaya and Shah Alam Magistrates’ Courts, respectively.

The penalties a are grossly inadequate, especially in light of the efforts by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the international cooperation from the authorities in Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, Japan, and Korea. The minimal fines were just a slap on the wrist to the offenders who could easily afford to pay them, considering that they were professionals. The manifestly inadequate punishments made a mockery of the justice system.

Section 292 of the Penal Code provides for imprisonment of up to three years, or a fine, or both. The CC calls on the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) to appeal against the fines and insist for the imposition of appropriate severe punishments that would have deterrent effect on potential offenders.

The CC also earnestly hopes that, when the two in due course are brought to Court on separate charges under Section 10 of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, the AGC would impress upon the Court to impose sentences of a nature befitting the seriousness of the crimes committed.

The CC supports the PDRM’s recommendation for legislation requiring telcos and ISPs to retain subscriber data for at least two years. In the present case, as data was only retained for six months, the PDRM could not obtain information linked to the other 16 IP addresses and was only able to act on four, leading to current arrests.

The CC stresses that lenient sentences will not serve the public interest and may give the unintended wrong impression that possession of obscene objects/CSAM is tolerable. Harsher penalties are imperative to convey the message that all such crimes, especially when committed against children, are heinous and should be punished accordingly.

-END-

Dr Farah Nini Dusuki

Children’s Commissioner 

17 April 2025