Posts in category: Uncategorized

KUALA LUMPUR (9 SEPTEMBER 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) commemorates SUHAKAM Day today, marking a historic 27 years since the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 [Act 597] was gazetted on 9 September 1999.

The establishment of SUHAKAM as Malaysia’s National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) represented an important national commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights. Since its establishment and guided by its “Human Rights for All” slogan, SUHAKAM has served as an independent institution that advises and assists the Government in the formulation of legislation, administrative directives and procedures; recommends necessary measures; investigates complaints of human rights violations; conducts inquiries; promotes human rights education; and engages with communities and stakeholders across Malaysia.

As a result of its continued commitment and collaborative efforts with stakeholders, SUHAKAM was re-accredited with ‘A’ status by the Sub-Committee on Accreditation of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI-SCA) in June 2026. This re-accreditation reflects international recognition of SUHAKAM’s continued compliance with the Paris Principles, which establish the standards for the independence, effectiveness, pluralism, and mandate of NHRIs. As an ‘A’ status NHRI, SUHAKAM is entitled to participate fully in international human rights mechanisms, including sessions of the United Nations Human Rights Council, the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) and treaty body processes.

SUHAKAM’s institutional mandate was further strengthened through amendments to Act 597, which came into force on 10 July 2024. Among other changes, the amendments enhanced the functions of the Commission and the Office of the Children’s Commissioner; provided for the appointment of a Chief Children’s Commissioner and two Children’s Commissioners; strengthened SUHAKAM’s investigative powers; and expanded its authority to visit places of detention, institutions and other relevant premises. The amendments also require authorities and relevant persons to inform SUHAKAM of actions taken in response to its recommendations.

The inclusion of representation of persons with disabilities and a requirement for at least 30 percent women in the composition of the Commission represent further important advancements towards ensuring that SUHAKAM reflects the diversity and lived experiences of the communities it serves. These measures reinforce the principles of participation, inclusion and equality embodied in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

Throughout its 27-year journey, SUHAKAM has brought critical human rights concerns to national attention through complaints handling, research, public inquiries, monitoring, policy recommendations and sustained engagement with the Government, Parliament, civil society and affected communities. Its work has addressed a wide range of human rights issues, including deaths and conditions in custody, enforced disappearances, Indigenous Peoples’ land rights, freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, discrimination, trafficking in persons, business and human rights, statelessness, and the rights of children, women, persons with disabilities, refugees, older persons and other vulnerable communities.

SUHAKAM also welcomes the progress made in the tabling and debate of its Annual Reports in Parliament. Parliamentary consideration of these reports strengthens public accountability and provides an important platform for human rights concerns and SUHAKAM’s recommendations to be examined at the national level. While these developments represent meaningful progress, the effectiveness of an NHRI must ultimately be measured not only by the reports it produces or the recommendations it makes, but by the extent to which those recommendations lead to tangible improvements in laws, policies, institutions and, most importantly, the lived realities of the people whose rights are intended to be protected.

In an era marked by geopolitical tensions, climate change, rapid technological developments and increasing socioeconomic pressures, SUHAKAM emphasises that human rights must remain at the centre of national policymaking and governance. Now more than ever, there is a need to reaffirm and strengthen human rights principles to ensure that development is inclusive, equitable and leaves no one behind. In this regard, SUHAKAM reiterates the importance of further strengthening its functional and operational independence, ensuring adequate and sustainable resources, enhancing transparency in the appointment process, facilitating effective and unannounced access to all places of deprivation of liberty, and establishing stronger mechanisms to ensure the timely implementation of its recommendations.

SUHAKAM Day symbolises SUHAKAM’s continued commitment to fulfilling its mandate with independence, integrity and accountability. SUHAKAM will continue to serve as a bridge between the people and the State, amplify the voices of marginalised communities, and advocate for a human rights-based approach to governance and development. Guided by the principle of “Human Rights for All”, SUHAKAM remains steadfast in its pursuit of a Malaysia where human dignity is respected, equality is upheld, justice is accessible to all, and the rights and freedoms of every person are protected and fulfilled.

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

9 September  2026

KUALA LUMPUR (14 AUGUST 2026) – The Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC), Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), is deeply concerned by the reported incident involving a nine-year-old child who was allegedly bullied by an older student at a tahfiz school in Kedah. It is particularly distressing that the child reportedly sustained physical injuries and psychological trauma and is now fearful of returning to school.

Every child has the right to learn and develop in a safe, supportive and dignified environment, free from violence, abuse, intimidation and bullying. This is consistent with the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which requires children to be protected from all forms of physical or mental violence and affirms that their best interests must be a primary consideration in all actions concerning them. All educational institutions owe a duty of care to the children entrusted to them. This responsibility applies equally to government schools, tahfiz schools, religious schools and all other private educational institutions.

OCC calls on every educational institution to establish and rigorously implement comprehensive child safeguarding and anti-bullying mechanisms. These should include clear procedures to prevent, report, investigate and respond to incidents, adequate supervision particularly in residential settings, confidential and child-friendly reporting channels, prompt notification of parents or guardians, and timely access to medical care, counselling and psychosocial support. Teachers, wardens and other personnel must be properly screened, trained and equipped to identify signs of bullying, abuse or distress and to intervene without delay. Institutions must also maintain proper records of reported incidents and cooperate fully with parents, enforcement agencies, child protection authorities and relevant regulators.

The safety of children cannot depend solely on whether a child has the courage or ability to disclose what has happened. Institutions must have proactive systems to identify risks, detect warning signs and intervene before harm escalates. Any response must prioritise the best interests, safety, recovery and continued education of the affected child. No child should face retaliation, stigma or further disadvantage for reporting bullying.

OCC also reminds parents and guardians that the Anti-Bullying Tribunal Act 2026 came into force on 16 June 2026. Incidents occurring on or after that date may be reported through the mechanisms provided under the Act. For schools under the Ministry of Education (MOE), complaints may be directed to the school for action through its school-level anti-bullying committee. Where a school or educational institution is not registered under MOE, including relevant private or religious institutions, parents or guardians may lodge a claim directly with the Anti-Bullying Tribunal.

The Tribunal provides a resolution and remedial mechanism that is distinct from the criminal justice process. Depending on the circumstances of the case, it may order remedies such as an apology, counselling, compensation or reimbursement of reasonable expenses arising from the incident, including medical costs. Where the alleged conduct may constitute a criminal offence, particularly when it involves physical assault, serious injury, threats or an immediate risk to a child’s safety, a police report should also be lodged. Recourse to the Tribunal does not replace or prevent a criminal investigation by the police.

OCC urges the Government and relevant authorities to ensure that parents, guardians, children and educational institutions receive clear and accessible information on these reporting pathways. No complaint should be delayed or left without action and all relevant authorities should conduct a prompt and thorough investigation into the reported incident and to ensure that the affected child receives appropriate protection and support. The child’s identity and privacy must be safeguarded throughout the process.

This incident must serve as a clear warning to every institution entrusted with the care and education of children and child safeguarding is a fundamental obligation, not an administrative option. OCC urges the relevant authorities to ensure that binding and consistently enforced safeguarding and anti-bullying standards apply across all educational settings, including private and religious institutions. No institution should be permitted to operate without effective systems to protect every child’s safety, well-being and dignity.

-END-

Children’s Commissioners (CC)
Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

14 August 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (31 JULY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), in its capacity as Chair of the South East Asia National Human Rights Institutions Forum (SEANF) for 2026, successfully hosted the 2nd Technical Working Group (TWG) Meeting of SEANF, a side event and a study visit from 21 to 23 July 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The 2nd TWG Meeting brought together SEANF member institutions, with in-person participation from the Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines (CHRP), the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRCT), and Provedor de Direitos Humanos e Justiça (PDHJ), Timor-Leste, as well as virtual participation from the Indonesian National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) and the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission (MNHRC).

The meeting was officially opened by SUHAKAM Commissioner Mr Abdul Kadir Jailani Ismail, who underscored that trafficking in persons and migrant smuggling remain among the most pressing human rights challenges confronting Southeast Asia. He emphasised that the role of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) extends beyond advocacy to promoting accountability, strengthening protection mechanisms and fostering regional cooperation.

Over the two-day meeting, SEANF members exchanged updates on key developments, initiatives and challenges since the 1st TWG Meeting of SEANF 2026. Discussions focused on the continued implementation of the 2022–2026 SEANF Strategic Plan, particularly its four strategic priorities: ensuring human rights remain central in a post-pandemic environment; advancing business and human rights; preventing torture and other forms of ill-treatment; and strengthening SEANF as a credible, independent and effective regional network.

In line with its lead role under Strategic Priority 4, SUHAKAM reaffirmed its commitment to advancing discussions on strengthening SEANF’s governance, including advocating for a two-thirds majority voting mechanism where consensus cannot be reached on specific key matters. The meeting also deliberated on several emerging regional human rights issues, including the proposed ASEAN Declaration on the Right to a Safe, Clean, Healthy and Sustainable Environment, the rights of older persons, inter-NHRI cooperation on statelessness, and the human rights situation in Sabah.

On 22 July 2026, SUHAKAM hosted a side event entitled “Forum on the Refugee and Trafficking in Persons Crises in Southeast Asia: Challenges and Opportunities for Regional Cooperation.” Held alongside the TWG Meeting, the forum provided a regional platform for participants to discuss emerging trends, protection gaps and challenges relating to refugees, asylum-seekers and trafficking in persons in Southeast Asia. The discussions also enhanced understanding of the complementary roles of NHRIs, government agencies, international organisations and civil society organisations in protecting affected individuals, while identifying practical opportunities for regional cooperation through SEANF, including information sharing, case referrals, joint advocacy, capacity-building and follow-up initiatives.

In conjunction with the forum, SUHAKAM organised a study visit to Baitul Mahabbah Nilai, providing delegates with an opportunity to better understand the Government’s temporary arrangement for refugee children below the age of 12, which reflects efforts to move children out of immigration detention, as recommended by the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in its February 2026 Concluding Observations to Malaysia.

The meeting concluded with a closing address by SUHAKAM Vice-Chairman Datuk Hajah Mariati Robert, who called on ASEAN Member States to strengthen responsibility-sharing in responding to forced displacement and deepen regional cooperation to prevent trafficking in persons, protect victims and survivors, and ensure accountability. She further emphasised SEANF’s important role in fostering collaboration among governments, NHRIs, international organisations and civil society to ensure that forced displacement, statelessness and trafficking in persons are recognised not merely as domestic concerns but as shared regional human rights challenges requiring sustained collective action.

The successful convening of the 2nd TWG Meeting of SEANF reaffirmed the commitment of member institutions to strengthening SEANF as a credible, independent and effective regional human rights network. The meeting concluded with SEANF members reaffirming their commitment to enhance regional solidarity, strengthen cooperation in addressing emerging human rights challenges, and uphold the principles of human dignity, equality and justice across Southeast Asia.

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

31 July 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (1 JULY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) is deeply concerned by the disclosure that 465 deaths were recorded in immigration detention depots between 2021 and 2025, as reported by the Ministry of Home Affairs in Parliament. These figures underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to better protect the lives, dignity and health of all persons held in immigration detention.

Every death in custody must be treated with the utmost seriousness. Regardless of an individual’s immigration status, every person deprived of liberty remains entitled to the right to life, the highest attainable standard of health, and to be treated with humanity and dignity.

SUHAKAM has consistently maintained that deaths in custody are not merely operational or administrative matters, but serious human rights concerns that demand transparency, accountability and meaningful systemic reform. Through its monitoring visits to immigration detention depots and continuous engagement with the relevant authorities, the Commission has repeatedly raised concerns over overcrowding, inadequate healthcare services, delayed medical referrals, poor sanitation, insufficient nutrition, prolonged detention, and the detrimental impact of these conditions on the physical and mental well-being of detainees. These long-standing concerns highlight the need for sustained structural reforms to ensure that immigration detention facilities comply with Malaysia’s human rights obligations.

Therefore, SUHAKAM reiterates its longstanding recommendations that the Government:

1. Strengthen healthcare services in all immigration detention depots by ensuring adequate numbers of qualified medical personnel, regular health screenings, prompt referrals to hospitals, continuous treatment for chronic illnesses, and sufficient access to essential medicines;
2. Improve detention conditions by addressing overcrowding, sanitation, ventilation, nutrition and access to clean water to minimise the risk of communicable diseases and prevent avoidable deaths;
3. Ensure every death in custody is subject to a prompt, independent, transparent and effective investigation, with findings made public where appropriate and accountability established whenever negligence or misconduct is identified; and
4. Strengthen independent monitoring of immigration detention facilities by facilitating regular oversight by SUHAKAM and other relevant independent bodies.

Beyond improving conditions of detention, greater emphasis must also be placed on preventive measures. Early medical screening upon admission, regular health assessments, continuous monitoring of detainees with pre-existing medical conditions, timely referrals for specialist treatment, and uninterrupted access to essential healthcare are critical to preventing avoidable deaths in custody. The reported number of deaths should serve as a catalyst for the Government to undertake a comprehensive review of immigration detention policies and practices, placing equal emphasis on accountability for deaths that occur and, more importantly, on preventing future deaths through effective, rights-based reforms.

SUHAKAM therefore calls on the Government to take immediate and concrete action to strengthen healthcare, improve detention conditions, and implement rights-based reforms to ensure that every individual in immigration detention is treated with dignity and that preventable deaths are never regarded as inevitable.

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

1 July 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (18 JUNE 2026) – The Children’s Commissioners (CC) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) express their strong support for the official establishment and launch of the Anti-Bullying Tribunal by the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform), YB Dato’ Sri Azalina Othman Said, on 16 June 2026, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to create a safer, more inclusive, and child-friendly learning environments for all children.

The establishment of the Tribunal demonstrates the Government’s continued commitment to protecting children from all forms of bullying and violence, while ensuring that complaints are addressed through an accessible, child-sensitive, and effective redress mechanism. The launch of the Tribunal also reflects a collective national effort to strengthen child protection measures and uphold every child’s right to safety, dignity, and education.

The CC welcomes the coming into force of the Anti-Bullying Act 2026 on 16 June 2026. With the Act now operational, educational institutions are required to establish and implement six protective mechanisms for the prevention and management of bullying incidents. Pursuant to Section 7(1) of the Act, educational institutions are required to:

1. establish and maintain a committee for the prevention and management of bullying cases;
2. implement policies, guidelines, and procedures for the prevention and management of bullying cases;
3. establish accessible and child-sensitive reporting channels while ensuring the confidentiality of information relating to students who report bullying incidents;
4. provide counselling services and psychosocial support for victims and other persons affected by bullying cases;
5. conduct training programs on the prevention and management of bullying cases; and
6. achieve such standards of compliance relating to the prevention and management of bullying cases as may be determined by the Minister.

The CC particularly welcomes the establishment of a free and accessible complaint mechanism through the Anti-Bullying Tribunal, enabling victims and their parents or guardians to seek redress of an independent mechanism without financial burden. Information on the Tribunal, including complaint procedures, relevant resources, and online complaint submissions, can be accessed through the Tribunal Anti-Buli portal at https://tab.bheuu.gov.my/.

The CC acknowledge the collaborative and consultative process undertaken by the Government throughout the development and enactment of the Anti-Bullying Act 2026 and leading up to the establishment of the Anti-Bullying Tribunal. Since the early stages of policy formulation till the drafting of the Bill process and the establishment of the Tribunal, the CC have been actively involved in various engagement and consultation sessions, providing recommendations and perspectives grounded in children’s rights principles and the best interests of the child. The CC are particularly pleased that children and young persons were meaningfully engaged throughout the consultation process and that their views were duly considered in the development of this important legislation. In line with their promotion and oversight mandates, the CC have also supported the Ministry of Education in the development of child protection policies and have offered their expertise and assistance to other relevant agencies in establishing mechanisms required under the Act.

The CC are also encouraged by the statutory roles entrusted to the CC under the Anti-Bullying Act 2026. These responsibilities reinforce independent oversight and accountability in the implementation of anti-bullying measures nationwide. In this regard, the CC also welcome the provision of adequate resources and budgetary support to the OCC to effectively fulfil its responsibilities, in line with the recommendations contained in the February 2026 CRC Concluding Observation on Malaysia. Among the key functions accorded to the CC under the Act are:

• Receiving and reviewing audit reports relating to bullying prevention and response measures from educational institutions under the Ministry of Education (MOE), Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA), the Ministry of Defence, and the Social Welfare Department;
• Receiving quarterly reports and complaint statistics from the Anti-Bullying Tribunal for monitoring and oversight purposes;
• Monitoring and making recommendations concerning the prevention and management of bullying cases in educational institutions and institutions;
• Conducting education, awareness, outreach, and promotional programmes on anti-bullying initiatives and children’s rights; and
• Reporting annually on activities relating to the prevention and management of bullying cases in educational institutions and institutions to Parliament.

The CC believes that the success of the Anti-Bullying Tribunal will depend on the collective commitment of all stakeholders, including government agencies, educational institutions, parents, teachers, civil society organisations, and children themselves. No child should be subjected to bullying, harassment, or intimidation in any educational setting. The establishment of the Tribunal sends a clear message that bullying will not be tolerated and that children have the right to seek redress when their rights are violated.

The CC remains committed to working closely with the relevant institutions and all other stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the Anti-Bullying Act 2026 and to promote a culture of respect, empathy, and safety for every child in Malaysia.

-END-

Children’s Commissioners (CC)
Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

18 June 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (9 JUNE 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the decision by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) to reaffirm SUHAKAM’s accreditation as an “A Status” National Human Rights Institution (NHRI). 

The re-accreditation reflects continued international recognition of SUHAKAM’s compliance with the Paris Principles, the international standards adopted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) that govern the independence, effectiveness, pluralism, and mandate of national human rights institutions. SUHAKAM acknowledges the SCA’s recognition of the Commission’s continued efforts in promoting and protecting human rights in Malaysia, as well as the constructive recommendations provided to further strengthen the institution. 

SUHAKAM takes note of the recommendations relating to, among others, strengthening its functional and operational independence, enhancing the transparency and independence of the appointment and dismissal processes, ensuring adequate funding, enabling unannounced visits to all places of deprivation of liberty, strengthening parliamentary engagement with SUHAKAM reports, and reinforcing institutional capacity to effectively fulfil its expanding mandate, including its child rights responsibilities. 

SUHAKAM views these recommendations as important guidance towards further strengthening the institution in line with the Paris Principles and international best practices governing independent national human rights institutions. SUHAKAM remains committed to continuing engagement with the Government, Parliament, civil society organisations, and all relevant stakeholders to support legal and institutional reforms that reinforce SUHAKAM’s independence, effectiveness, accessibility, and public accountability.

As an “A Status” NHRI, SUHAKAM is able to participate fully in international and regional human rights mechanisms, including the United Nations Human Rights Council and treaty body processes. This status is important not merely as a form of international recognition, but because it affirms the importance of having an independent, credible, and effective institution dedicated to promoting and protecting the human rights of all persons in Malaysia.

Moving forward, SUHAKAM will continue to strengthen its institutional capacity, uphold the highest standards of integrity and independence, and enhance its engagement with the public in addressing both longstanding and emerging human rights challenges. The Commission remains steadfast in its vision of building a Malaysia grounded in human dignity, equality, justice, accountability, and respect for universal human rights principles.

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

9 June 2026

The Report and Recommendations of the 47th Session of the Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) can be accessed at:

⁠https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/documents/countries/nhri/ganhri/sca-report-47th-session-en.pdf

or scan the QR code below:

KUALA LUMPUR (1 MAY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses deep concern over the compounding impact of current economic challenges on vulnerable groups, particularly women, children, and low-income communities, including undocumented, stateless persons, and refugees in light of recent reports indicating proposed reductions in public expenditure for critical sectors.

Recent developments indicate that the Treasury of Malaysia has proposed RM5.4 billion in budget cuts affecting the health and higher education ministries. The proposed reductions to the Ministry of Health, is of course most worrying as it comes at a time when demand for public healthcare, nutrition support, and essential social services is increasing, particularly, among those most affected by the rising cost of living.

SUHAKAM stresses that fiscal retrenchment in healthcare during periods of economic pressure is particularly concerning. Evidence globally shows that healthcare systems are often among the hardest hit during crises, with long-term consequences for public health outcomes. In Malaysia, such reductions risk further exacerbating existing gaps in access, quality, and equity in healthcare services

SUHAKAM is concerned that such reductions, if implemented without adequate safeguards, risk undermining access to essential services that are critical to the protection of human rights, particularly in the areas of women’s health, child development, and the well-being of other vulnerable and marginalised groups, including the elderly, persons with disabilities, and low-income households. Economic hardship places added strain on households and may lead to adverse health outcomes, including reduced access to nutritious food, delayed healthcare seeking, and worsening physical and mental health conditions.

SUHAKAM further emphasises that such measures may constitute a regressive step in the realisation of economic, social, and cultural rights.  Malaysia has voluntarily committed to Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Wellbeing, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. In particular, Target 3(c) calls for increased health financing and strengthened health workforce capacity. SUHAKAM notes that both the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Economy have identified SDG 3 as a national priority due to its significant social impact. These commitments must be meaningfully upheld. The Government must not regress on the public right to health, a core economic, social and cultural human right. Public right to health is also a constitutional right protected by the Federal Constitution. Any fiscal consolidation measures must be carefully calibrated to avoid undermining equitable access to healthcare and essential support systems.

SUHAKAM reiterates that the right to health, adequate food, and well-being are fundamental human rights, protected by the Federal Constitution, as well as reflected in international obligations including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).

In this regard, SUHAKAM calls on the Government to:

1. Ensure that any fiscal consolidation measures do not disproportionately impact vulnerable populations, particularly, the elderly, women, children, and low-income groups;
2. Safeguard and, where necessary, increase allocations for essential health services, in line with SDG commitments, including maternal and reproductive health, child nutrition, and mental health support;
3. Strengthen community-based health and social support systems, particularly for underserved and at-risk populations;
4. Expand targeted social assistance, including food and nutrition support for low-income families;
5. Adopt a human rights-based approach to budgeting, ensuring transparency, participation, and accountability in fiscal decision-making.

SUHAKAM stresses that policy responses to economic pressures must not come at the expense of the most vulnerable. Commitments to sustainable development and human rights must be matched by concrete policy choices. Malaysia must not only prioritise SDG 3 in principle but also reflect this priority in practice. The Commission remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that Malaysia’s development policies uphold human dignity and leave no one behind.

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

1 May 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (25 APRIL 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) notes the recent developments concerning the appointment of the Chief Commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and statement by the Prime Minister that a list of candidates for the position has been presented to His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. This development raises grave concern on the constitutionality of the process and calls for the importance of ensuring that the appointment process continues to be carried out strictly in accordance with the Constitution and the applicable statutory framework. SUHAKAM therefore stresses that the Prime Minister bears the constitutional responsibility to advise on this appointment and must discharge this duty with firmness, clarity, and fidelity to the law. The proper exercise of this responsibility is essential to preserving constitutional order and maintaining public confidence in national institutions

SUHAKAM wishes to stress here that Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy founded upon the principle of the supremacy of the Federal Constitution and the rule of law. Within this constitutional framework, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong acts in accordance with constitutional provisions, including the well-established principle that His Majesty’s in the exercise of his functions shall act on the advice of the Prime Minister or the Cabinet, except in very limited and clearly defined circumstances. This is clearly spelt out in Article 40 of the Federal Constitution.

In this regard, Section 5(1) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 (Act 694) expressly provides that the Chief Commissioner shall be appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the advice of the Prime Minister. When this provision is read together with Article 40 of the Federal Constitution, what is stipulated is that the effective appointing authority is conferred by the Constitution and the law to the Prime Minister. The role of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong in the appointment process is merely formal or ceremonial. His Majesty must accept whoever the Prime Minister advices should be appointed. Of course, His Majesty is not precluded from giving his views or advice or seeking more information on the Prime Minister’ choice; however, ultimately, the Prime Minister’s advice or choice prevails. Any departure from this constitutional framework is inconsistent with and violates the Federal Constitution and undermines Malaysia’s democratic system of governance.

At the same time, SUHAKAM respectfully underscores the sanctity of the Federal Constitution as the supreme law of the Federation. All institutions of the State, including the monarchy, have distinct and important roles that must be exercised within the respective constitutional limits. Upholding these boundaries is vital to ensuring stability, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.

SUHAKAM further notes the growing calls for institutional reform to strengthen the independence of the MACC, including the adoption of a more transparent and merit-based appointment process. Consideration should also be given to mechanisms such as Parliamentary vetting or oversight to ensure that appointments are subject to appropriate checks and remain free from undue influence. The independence and credibility of the MACC depend not only on the individual appointed, but also on the integrity and legality of the appointment process itself. Any perception of constitutional deviation risks eroding public trust in anti-corruption efforts and governance more broadly.

SUHAKAM calls for full and strict adherence to the Federal Constitution and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 in the appointment of the next Chief Commissioner, while also encouraging meaningful reforms to enhance transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity in the longer term.

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

25 April 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (11 APRIL 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in West Asia and expresses hope that it will bring an immediate end to the immense suffering endured by civilians, particularly women and children.

Notwithstanding this positive development, SUHAKAM emphasises that a ceasefire must be accompanied by credible accountability measures for all alleged violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law committed during the conflict.

SUHAKAM is gravely concerned by reports that Palestinian detainees are being subjected to mass death sentences, with claims that thousands may face capital punishment. In this regard, SUHAKAM echoes the concerns raised by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, which has warned that legislative measures enabling the imposition of the death penalty against Palestinians may constitute a discriminatory regime of capital punishment, fundamentally incompatible with international law. Such measures raise serious and systemic due process violations, including the denial of fair trial guarantees and judicial independence. The targeted application of the death penalty against a specific population group may amount to collective punishment and could constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law, potentially rising to the level of international crimes.

The imposition of the death penalty in a discriminatory manner, reportedly applied exclusively against Palestinians, constitutes a grave violation of fundamental human rights, including the right to life, equality before the law, and the right to a fair trial.

In this regard, SUHAKAM calls on the European Union to urgently review and suspend the EU–Israel Association Agreement, in line with its human rights commitments. Continued economic engagement in the face of credible allegations of grave violations risks undermining the integrity of international human rights standards.

SUHAKAM further urges the international community to take immediate and concrete measures to ensure the protection of civilians, uphold the rule of law, and guarantee accountability for all violations, without exception. A just and lasting peace can only be achieved through full respect for international law, human dignity, and fundamental freedoms for all.

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

11 April 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (10 APRIL 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses concern regarding a recent incident at a public forum in Kuala Lumpur, where three individuals were reportedly arrested and detained by the police after briefly displaying placards during a speech by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner. SUHAKAM notes that the individuals have since been released. However, despite their subsequent release, SUHAKAM remains concerned about the circumstances and justification for the initial arrests.

Given that the act in question appears to have been peaceful and within the scope of protected expression, the arrests raise important questions about how the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are interpreted and applied in practice. In this regard, SUHAKAM reiterates its consistent position that the right to freedom of expression is a fundamental liberty guaranteed under Article 10(1)(a) of the Federal Constitution and Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). As a cornerstone of a democratic society, this right enables individuals to express views, engage in public discourse, and participate meaningfully in matters of public interest. While not absolute, any restrictions must comply with established international human rights principles, including those reflected in Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which require that limitations be lawful, necessary, and proportionate.

In this regard, SUHAKAM emphasises that the Government has an obligation not only to regulate, but also to facilitate and protect the exercise of these rights. This includes ensuring that individuals are able to express their views peacefully and without undue interference, while maintaining public order. Any enforcement measures should be undertaken in a manner that is proportionate, non-arbitrary, and consistent with the rule of law, with full adherence to due process guarantees.  In this context, it is important that the application of criminal sanctions, particularly those with broad or general scope, is carefully considered to ensure that it does not result in a disproportionate impact or inadvertently discourage the legitimate exercise of freedom of expression.

SUHAKAM also notes that the issues raised in the forum relate to matters of public concern that have previously attracted public attention, including SUHAKAM’s earlier call for an independent and transparent inquiry to uphold institutional integrity and public confidence. In such contexts, it is especially important that differing views can be expressed peacefully and that all parties are treated fairly and in accordance with the law.

SUHAKAM therefore calls on all relevant authorities to ensure that any enforcement measures arising from this incident are undertaken in a fair, measured, and proportionate manner, consistent with constitutional guarantees and international human rights standards. SUHAKAM remains committed to upholding both freedom of expression and public order, recognising that both are essential and mutually reinforcing pillars of a democratic society.

– END –

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

10 April 2026