Posts in category: Uncategorized

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.

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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.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

10 April 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (15 MARCH 2026) –  The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), the All-Party Parliamentary Group Malaysia on Children’s Rights (APPGM-CR), and all the CSO working on children’s rights strongly condemn the recent use of the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to detain children who are victims of terrorist recruitment through social media and online gaming platforms.

There is growing international concern that terrorist groups are increasingly exploiting digital spaces and online gaming platforms to recruit and indoctrinate children. These tactics are evolving rapidly and often outpace the responses of governments. In such circumstances, the children involved are primarily victims of manipulation, grooming, and indoctrination, and should therefore be addressed through protection, rehabilitation, and psychosocial intervention, rather than restrictive security detention.

While we welcome the reported release of the children involved on the 13th of March 2026, it is essential that any further action prioritizes structured rehabilitation and monitoring mechanisms, particularly in cases where children may have been subjected to attempted online extremist recruitment. Detaining children under SOSMA, a law designed to address serious national security threats, is inconsistent with the principle of the best interests of the child and undermines Malaysia’s obligation to protect children from exploitation. The use of SOSMA against children raises serious concerns, as the procedural law does not provide child-specific safeguards, adequate judicial oversight, or protections consistent with the child justice system, particularly in cases involving national security offences.

As a State Party to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) since 1995, Malaysia has clear international obligations to ensure that children are protected from arbitrary or prolonged deprivation of liberty. The justice system must also ensure that children’s treatment prioritizes the best interests of the child, due process, and meaningful access to justice.

The Child Act 2001 provides a clear legal framework that prioritises the care, protection, rehabilitation and welfare of children exposed to harm, exploitation or criminal influence. Children who have been targeted by extremist networks should therefore be addressed through child protection mechanisms, including counselling, deradicalisation programmes, family support and community-based rehabilitation. Such interventions should incorporate appropriate psychosocial support, structured monitoring and active parental involvement to reduce the risk of recurrence. Deradicalisation initiatives must also be designed to include child-sensitive and age-appropriate modules that take into account the developmental needs, vulnerabilities and best interests of the child.

SUHAKAM and APPGM-CR therefore call upon the Prime Minister of Malaysia to:

1. Immediately impose a moratorium on the use of SOSMA against children;
2. Ensure that children involved in such cases are treated as victims of exploitation and provided appropriate rehabilitation and protection under the Child Act 2001; and
3. Repeal SOSMA or amend the procedural law to introduce judicial oversight and safeguards that prevent its application arbitrarily by the upcoming July Parliamentary sitting.

Malaysia must adopt a child-centered and rights-based approach in responding to emerging threats of online extremist recruitment. Protecting children from terrorist exploitation requires strong child protection systems, early intervention, and rehabilitation, not prolonged security detention.

SUHAKAM and APPGM-CR remain committed to working with the Government and the enforcement agencies to ensure that Malaysia’s counter-terrorism measures uphold human rights and protect the best interests of every child.

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Issued jointly by:

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

All-Party Parliamentary Group Malaysia Children’s Rights (APPGM-CR)

Endorsed by:

Initiative to Promote Tolerance & Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY)

Suara Rakyat Malaysia (SUARAM)

Prof. Emeritus Dato’ Noor Aziah Mohd Awal, SUHAKAM 1^st Children Commissioner

MANDIRI

KUALA LUMPUR (11 MARCH 2026) – In an era where digital narratives can either empower or endanger women and girls, ethical and responsible media practices are more critical than ever. Therefore, in conjunction with International Women’s Day 2026 on 8 March, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) and the Malaysian Media Council (MMM) jointly reaffirm our shared commitment to advancing gender equality, safeguarding human dignity, and strengthening ethical and responsible media practices in Malaysia.

International Women’s Day serves as a timely reminder that equality and non-discrimination must be reflected not only in law and policy, but also in public discourse. The media play a powerful role in shaping societal attitudes, influencing narratives, and reinforcing or challenging harmful stereotypes. As such, strengthening gender-responsive and rights-respecting media practices are essential to building a more inclusive and just society.

Following constructive engagement between both institutions, SUHAKAM and MMM have expressed their intention to strengthen dialogue and cooperation at the intersection of human rights and media governance. This engagement reflects the complementary roles of both institutions and shared recognition that ethical journalism and human rights protection are mutually reinforcing.

SUHAKAM, established under the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 (Act 597), is mandated to promote and protect human rights, including equality, dignity, and freedom of expression. MMM, established under the Media Council Act 2025 (Act 868), is an independent statutory body responsible for upholding ethical journalism, administering the Media Council Code of Conduct, managing complaints on unethical media practices, and strengthening public trust in the media. This engagement recognises the independence and statutory mandates of both institutions while encouraging dialogue in the public interest.

Areas of potential collaboration may include joint capacity-building initiatives, the possible development of training modules, and the exploration of a working group to consider media ethics through a gender lens.

In this regard, both institutions intend to explore ways to:

• Promote gender and child sensitive as well as ethical media standards;
• Encourage responsible reporting on issues affecting women, children and other vulnerable communities.
• Support safer working environments for journalists, particularly women journalists, and addressing harassment and intimidation in the course of reporting.
• Strengthen institutional dialogue on complaints, accountability, and governance; and
• Enhance awareness of the role of media in advancing equality and preventing harm.

These initiatives are broadly aligned with Malaysia’s commitments under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which underscore the importance of addressing harmful stereotyping, gender-based discrimination, and violence through preventive and educational approaches.

Recent trends in online harassment and gendered misinformation underscore the urgency of this initiative. As Malaysia navigates an evolving media landscape shaped by digital transformation, misinformation, and emerging technologies, media freedom must continue to be exercised with responsibility and respect for human dignity. Upholding ethical standards while safeguarding freedom of expression is fundamental to democratic accountability and public trust.

In commemorating International Women’s Day, SUHAKAM and MMM call upon media practitioners, editors, policymakers, and the public to collectively foster a media environment that promotes equality, fairness, and respect. Advancing women’s rights and strengthening ethical journalism are shared responsibilities that require sustained commitment towards rights, justice and action.

Melissa Akhir, SUHAKAM Commissioner, said:

“International Women’s Day reminds us of the importance of fostering a media environment that promotes equality, fairness, and respect. Advancing women’s rights and strengthening ethical journalism are shared responsibilities that require sustained commitment.”

Gayathry Venkiteswaran, MMM Board Member, said:

“The Malaysian Media Council is pleased to work with SUHAKAM on this very important initiative to strengthen gender equality and sensitivity in news coverage, as we recognise that ethical, fair, and inclusive reporting is essential to public trust and democratic discourse. Gender-sensitive reporting helps the public better understand the realities and contributions of all members of society, leading to more accurate journalism and more informed public debate. We at the Malaysian Media Council commit to advancing newsroom standards that both safeguard press freedom and protect women journalists from discrimination, harassment, and threats that undermine their ability to report freely and safely.”

Together, both SUHAKAM and MMM reaffirm that a gender-responsive, rights-aligned and accountable media ecosystem is fundamental to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender, can participate in public life with dignity, equality and safety.

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Issued jointly by:

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Malaysian Media Council (MMM)

KUALA LUMPUR (8 MARCH 2026) – In conjunction with International Women’s Day observed this year under the theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.”, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to advancing and safeguarding gender equality and women’s rights, in line with international human rights standards, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).

This year’s theme serves as a timely reminder that human rights must be realised in the everyday lives of all women and girls. These include the right to equality before the law and access to justice; the freedom to express themselves and access information; the right to safety in both digital and public spaces; and the ability to participate fully in cultural, scientific and civic life. When these rights are denied or constrained by gendered power dynamics, structural inequalities are reinforced and public trust in institutions is undermined.

SUHAKAM’s external priorities are aligned with the CEDAW Concluding Observations on Malaysia, particularly the four thematic areas identified for Malaysia’s Follow-up Report to CEDAW Concluding Observations due in June, namely:

1. The enactment of comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation against women, including measures to strengthen women’s political leadership and to uphold the rights of women in detention.
2. The eradication of child marriage.
3. The issue of female genital mutilation (FGM); and
4. The protection of the human rights of refugee women and girls.

These priority areas reflect persistent gaps in law, policy and implementation that require urgent and coordinated national action. SUHAKAM will continue to monitor progress, engage relevant stakeholders and advocate for reforms consistent with Malaysia’s obligations under CEDAW, ensuring that commitments translate into tangible protection and equality for all women and girls.

Guided by the ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APF) Gender Strategy that informs the work of national human rights institutions, and pursuant to its broader human rights mandate, SUHAKAM remains committed to addressing gender inequality in substance, structures and culture. This includes monitoring systems affecting women’s access to justice, safeguarding freedom of expression, supporting gender-responsive laws and policies, and confronting discrimination and gender-based violence in all its forms. These efforts reflect SUHAKAM’s determination to mainstream gender equality both internally and externally, fully integrated across all human rights principles.

Through its proposed parliamentary engagement under the APF Gender Strategy follow-up, SUHAKAM underscores International Women’s Day as a critical opportunity to move from commitment to action. SUHAKAM urges all duty bearers, especially government institutions, Parliament and key stakeholders, to work collectively to ensure that human rights are effectively protected and enforced and translated into concrete justice and meaningful outcomes for women and girls throughout Malaysia.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

8 March 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (7 MARCH 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses grave concern over the recent military attacks carried out by the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran, which have significantly escalated tensions in the Middle East and placed civilian lives at grave risk.

Recent reports indicate that the strikes targeted multiple locations in Iran as part of a coordinated military operation, triggering retaliatory actions and raising fears of a wider regional conflict. The ongoing hostilities have already resulted in substantial casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure. 

SUHAKAM emphasises that any use of force that undermines the territorial integrity or political independence of a State is contrary to the fundamental principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, in particular Article 2(4), and is inconsistent with the obligation of States to act in good faith as provided under Article 2(2). In this regard, SUHAKAM reiterates that all parties to an armed conflict are bound by international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law. These legal frameworks impose clear obligations on States and armed actors to always distinguish between civilians and combatants, to refrain from attacks on civilian infrastructure, and to ensure that any use of force complies with the principles of necessity, proportionality, and precaution.

SUHAKAM is particularly concerned by reports of civilian casualties and the risk of further harm to vulnerable populations, including women and children, as hostilities intensify. Armed conflict inevitably places civilians at the greatest risk, disrupts access to essential services, and exacerbates humanitarian suffering.

SUHAKAM therefore calls on all parties involved to:

1. Immediately cease actions that endanger civilian lives and civilian infrastructure;
2. Respect and comply fully with international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and civilian objects;
3. Exercise maximum restraint and prioritise diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation of the conflict; and
4. Ensure accountability for violations of international law, including attacks that may constitute war crimes.

As for the international intervention, SUHAKAM calls for the following actions:

1. The UN Security Council may promptly adopt a resolution to stop and address the war between the United States and Israel with Iran, as it is contrary to international law and the UN Charter, particularly Articles 2(4) and 51;
2. If the United States prevents the Security Council from acting to restore international peace and security, the UN General Assembly may convene under the “Uniting for Peace” resolution to address and stop the war between the United States and Israel with Iran; and
3. The General Assembly may recommend that its Member States impose arms and trade embargoes on all the parties to armed conflict.

At a time of escalating global tensions, SUHAKAM stresses that lasting peace and security can only be achieved through dialogue, diplomacy and respect for international law. The international community must also play a constructive role in supporting de-escalation efforts and safeguarding the fundamental rights and dignity of all affected populations.

SUHAKAM stands in solidarity with all civilians affected by the conflict and reiterates that the protection of human life and human dignity must remain the foremost priority in any situation of armed conflict.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

7 March 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (28 FEBRUARY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) views with serious concern recent remarks made by Members of Parliament which have denigrated certain groups of individuals through unfounded and scientifically unsubstantiated claims, including characterising persons of diverse sexual identity and sexual orientation as deviant cults and suggesting that work-related stress may contribute to an individual’s sexual identity or sexual orientation. SUHAKAM considers such statements to be inappropriate, misleading and unethical. The propagation of harmful stereotypes and misinformation risks deepening prejudice, normalising discrimination, and may ultimately expose affected individuals to stigma, harm and threats to their safety and wellbeing.

It is unbecoming of Members of Parliament representing the rakyat, or holders of important positions in the Cabinet, to continue to spew toxic language in the legislative house. Parliament must remain a forum of principled debate, guided by respect for human dignity and constitutional values. SUHAKAM emphasises that all individuals, regardless their sexual identity or sexual orientation, are entitled to be treated with dignity and respect.

Fundamental liberties are the cornerstone of Malaysia’s constitutional framework. Article 5 of the Federal Constitution provides for the right to personal liberty, whilst Article 8 guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the law. As lawmakers, Members of Parliament must adhere to Article 8 of the Federal Constitution, which upholds equality before the law. Article 8 clearly prohibits discrimination based on gender and this constitutional commitment is reinforced by Malaysia’s ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) in 1995. CEDAW and the Federal Constitution call for non-discrimination that recognises intersecting layers of oppression and vulnerability, rather than reducing individuals merely to facets of their identity, orientation, or background.

Public discourse, particularly within Parliament, must reflect this constitutional and international commitment to equality and dignity. SUHAKAM further emphasises that statements made by public officials, particularly in official forums such as Parliament, must be responsible, cautious, and grounded in accurate information, while reflecting respect for human rights principles. Statements that lack scientific clarity or that may promote prejudice can significantly shape negative public attitudes and contribute to a culture of discrimination.

SUHAKAM remains committed to promoting the understanding that human rights apply to all, in line with the spirit of the Federal Constitution and universal human rights principles. In this regard, SUHAKAM stands ready to conduct capacity-building initiatives with the Parliament of Malaysia on human rights principles and constitutional obligations, towards fostering a more informed and responsible lawmaking institution.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

28 February 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (21 FEBRUARY 2026) – The Children’s Commissioners have taken note of a viral social media post shared on 19 February 2026 by a father, concerning the alleged sexual assault of his seven-year-old son by an unknown individual in a mosque toilet while attending congregational prayers.

The Children’s Commissioners are deeply disturbed by this incident and empathise with the pain, anger, and distress experienced by the child and his family. We are informed that the matter is currently under police investigation, and we commend the Royal Malaysia Police for their prompt action. The Children’s Commissioners hope that the investigation will be conducted thoroughly and that the perpetrator will be brought to justice under the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017.

This incident is a stark reminder that no place can be presumed entirely safe for children if adequate supervision and safeguards are not in place, including places of worship. Child sexual offenders may exploit moments when children are left unattended, regardless of location.

As families gather during the festive period of Chinese New Year and the holy month of Ramadan, parents and caregivers are urged to exercise heightened vigilance, especially in crowded public spaces and communal facilities. Children should be accompanied at all times, particularly when using restrooms or moving away from main congregation areas.

The Children’s Commissioners also call upon administrators of places of worship, including mosque committees, to strengthen child-safety measures. This includes ensuring that CCTV systems are installed and fully operational in appropriate areas, and that regular safety reminders are delivered by religious leaders to congregants.

We commend mosques that have introduced supervised childcare arrangements during tarawih prayers and encourage the expansion of such initiatives nationwide as a proactive child-protection measure.

Protecting children is a shared responsibility that requires constant awareness, collective effort, and zero tolerance for abuse.

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Dr Farah Nini Dusuki

Chief Children’s Commissioner

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

21 February 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (16 FEBRUARY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its concern over recent developments regarding the establishment of a special committee to investigate allegations involving the Chief Commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), following reports published by Bloomberg on 12 February 2026.

SUHAKAM does not take a position on the substance of the allegations. Nevertheless, we emphasise that corruption, as well as any perception that it is not addressed with seriousness and accountability carries profound negative human rights consequences. It undermines equality before the law, weakens access to justice, diverts public resources away from essential services, and disproportionately affects vulnerable and marginalised communities. The integrity, independence and credibility of anti-corruption institutions are therefore indispensable to the protection and realisation of human rights.

It cannot be denied that corruption is rampant in this country and is cancerous. Disgracefully, even high level ex-political leaders have been hauled to Court, convicted and sentenced to long terms of imprisonment. The sad truth is that – and this is of great concern to SUHAKAM, a body entrusted to promote and defend human rights – the higher the level of corruption that prevails in our society, the more it undermines the human rights of the citizens. In the battle against corruption, it is imperative that those entrusted to combat this evil practice must not only be beyond any suspicion of wrongdoing but must be perceived to be whiter than white.

Whilst the establishment of a special investigation committee (or task force) is acknowledged, concerns arise where such a body lacks clear statutory authority and necessary investigative powers. An inquiry that does not have the power to compel the attendance of witnesses, require the production of documents, or otherwise secure relevant evidence risks being viewed as limited in scope and effectiveness. In matters of significant public interest, these limitations may erode public confidence in both the investigative process and its outcome.

In light of this, SUHAKAM calls for the establishment of a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) under the Commissions of Enquiry Act 1950 (Act 119), rather than a task force without coercive powers. An RCI is vested with the authority to summon witnesses, examine them under oath, and compel the production of documents. Such powers are essential to ensure a thorough, independent and transparent examination of all relevant allegations. The scope of the inquiry must also be comprehensive. Investigations should not be confined to a narrow set of issues but should encompass all serious allegations that have entered the public domain, including those relating to alleged share ownership and reported allegations of collusion. A fragmented or selective approach risks creating perceptions of partiality and undermining the credibility of the process.

Institutional independence is equally critical. The composition of any investigative body must avoid actual or perceived conflicts of interest. Public confidence depends not only on the fairness of the process, but also on its appearance of fairness. Clear separation between investigative and prosecutorial functions, together with safeguards against undue influence, are fundamental principles of natural justice. In this respect, SUHAKAM is of the view that the proposed investigative body should not be chaired by the Attorney General. Instead, it should be led by an independent and respected retired Senior Judge, such as Yang Amat Berbahagia Tun Tengku Maimun binti Tuan Mat, who is widely recognised for her judicial integrity. The membership of the investigative body should also be broadened to include a respected representative from Civil Society Organisations (CSO) in order to enhance credibility, transparency and public trust in the process.

SUHAKAM further emphasises that appropriate interim administrative measures may be necessary to safeguard the integrity and credibility of the investigation. Such measures should not be perceived to be punitive in nature but are intended to preserve public confidence and ensure that the inquiry proceeds independently and without interference, pending its conclusion. In this regard, SUHAKAM supports the call for Tan Sri Azam Baki to be placed on garden leave while the RCI carries out its investigation, as this would help prevent any real or perceived influence over the investigative process.

Transparency remains a cornerstone of democratic governance and an essential component of the rule of law. The public should be informed of the mandate, powers and progress of the inquiry, subject to legitimate confidentiality considerations. Open and accountable processes strengthen institutions and reinforce public trust.

Malaysia’s commitment to combating corruption must be aligned with its human rights obligations. Where allegations involve those entrusted with enforcing anti-corruption laws, the response must be robust, independent and beyond reproach.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

16 February 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (11 FEBRUARY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its concern over the recent arrest of 20 individuals in connection with police action relating to the planned rally organised by Gerakan Anti Rumah Anutan Haram (GARAH) on 7 February 2026.

SUHAKAM reiterates that the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are fundamental liberties guaranteed under the Federal Constitution and recognised under international human rights law. At the same time, these rights are not absolute and must be exercised responsibly, with due regard to the inherent dignity, equality and rights of all persons. They must not be misused to promote hatred, racism, discrimination or hostility against any group.

Peaceful assembly remains a legitimate democratic space to raise concerns and advocate for change when conducted in a manner consistent with human rights principles, including non-discrimination, equality before the law and respect for diversity. In this regard, international standards, including the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) and Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), protect the right to manifest religion, including the establishment and protection of places of worship, and require States to prevent both direct and indirect discrimination, including where attacks on religious identity disproportionately affect ethnic or minority groups. While freedom of speech is generally protected, advocacy that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility, or violence is prohibited under international law, specifically Article 19(3) and Article 20(2) of the ICCPR.

In this context, SUHAKAM emphasises that allegations involving hate speech, racist conduct or incitement to discrimination should be addressed firmly and in accordance with the law, guided by due process and applicable human rights standards. Constitutional freedoms cannot be invoked to justify conduct that undermines the rights, safety and dignity of others.

At the same time, SUHAKAM notes that the Peaceful Assembly Act (PAA) 2012 places responsibilities on the authorities, including the police, to manage assemblies in a lawful, proportionate and facilitative manner. Any enforcement action taken should be grounded in clear legal authority, respect due process, and be appropriate to the circumstances.

SUHAKAM is closely monitoring developments surrounding this incident, including the legal basis and circumstances of enforcement actions taken, to ensure that all responses — by both organisers and authorities — remain consistent with constitutional guarantees, the rule of law, the PAA 2012, and Malaysia’s international human rights obligations.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

11 February 2026