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Media Statement No. 52-2025_ SUHAKAM Calls For Halt To Forced Evictions And Urges Respect For The Right To Housing In Selangor

KUALA LUMPUR (13 NOVEMBER 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its deep concern over the ongoing situation involving the residents of Kampung Jalan Papan, Pandamaran, Klang, Selangor, following allegations of forced evictions and demolition of homes to make way for development projects.

According to media and civil society reports, more than 30 houses including occupied homes were demolished, despite the reported instruction from the Office of the Selangor Chief Minister that no forced evictions or demolitions of occupied homes and premises should be carried out. If there has been inadequate consultation with affected residents, SUHAKAM advises the State Government to take immediate steps to ensure that a transparent and participatory consultation process is conducted. It was reported that many residents, who have lived in the area for decades and contributed to the social and economic life of the community, were not adequately consulted or provided with viable housing alternatives, leaving them uncertain about their future and without clarity regarding relocation or compensation arrangements.

SUHAKAM wishes to remind all authorities that the right to adequate housing is a fundamental human right, recognised under Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 11(1) of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), to which Malaysia has expressed its commitment and further supported by principles in the Federal Constitution guaranteeing the right to life and dignity. Forced evictions, if found to be carried out without due process, consultation, or provision of alternative housing, are inconsistent with Malaysia’s international human rights obligations. Evictions must never render individuals or families homeless or vulnerable to further human rights violations.

SUHAKAM underscores that the Selangor State Government and its agencies have an obligation to ensure that any redevelopment project complies with human rights standards, including genuine consultation with affected residents prior to eviction, provision of adequate notice and transparent information about the development process, guarantees of security of tenure and fair compensation where displacement is unavoidable and availability of adequate alternative housing or relocation sites before any demolition or relocation is carried out.

While recognising the importance of urban development and housing improvement, SUHAKAM is of the view that development must not come at the expense of the rights and dignity of the people. The treatment of long-standing communities, such as Kampung Jalan Papan, reflects the nation’s commitment to inclusive and rights-based governance.

SUHAKAM therefore calls on:

i.          The Selangor State Government, the relevant state agencies, and developers to immediately halt any further evictions until a proper and transparent consultation process is undertaken with affected residents.

ii.         The State to provide immediate humanitarian assistance and temporary shelter for families affected by demolition.

iii.       Authorities to engage with residents in good faith to develop long-term resettlement or housing solutions that uphold the right to adequate housing; and

iv.        The State Government to review its housing and land development policies to prevent recurrence of forced evictions, ensuring that all future projects are carried out in line with human rights standards and due process.

SUHAKAM reiterates that progress and development must be pursued in a manner that respects human dignity, protects vulnerable communities, and upholds the rule of law. The right to adequate housing is not merely a policy choice but a legal and moral responsibility of the State.

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 13 November 2025

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Media Statement No. 51-2025_ SUHAKAM Expresses Concern Over Alleged Ill-Treatment Of Children And Prosecution Outcomes in GISBH Case

KUALA LUMPUR (13 NOVEMBER 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its deep concern over recent prosecutorial developments linked to Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISBH), which have raised serious public alarm regarding the protection of children’s rights in Malaysia.

SUHAKAM notes that more than 400 children, including infants, were rescued from homes operated by GISBH following coordinated enforcement actions in late 2024. Allegations of physical abuse, neglect, sexual violence, and economic exploitation constitute grave violations of the children’s fundamental rights and dignity.

SUHAKAM underscores that the failure of GISBH’s leadership and owners to safeguard the children under their care, and instead exposing them to exploitation and harm, represents a serious breach of both legal and moral obligations. Public concern has been further intensified by reports that certain GISBH leaders were released or faced lesser charges, despite hundreds of police reports alleging violence and ill-treatment of vulnerable children. These developments have prompted renewed calls for transparency and accountability from the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC).

As Malaysia is a State Party to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), SUHAKAM reminds that national laws must be fully enforced to protect children from all forms of violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation, particularly offences under the Child Act 2001 and the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017. Decisions relating to the prosecution of such offences must prioritise justice, protection, and deterrence, and be guided at all times by the best interests of the child.

In light of these concerns, SUHAKAM calls on the AGC to provide a clear and public explanation of its prosecutorial decisions and to disclose details of the cases related to the alleged acts of sexual abuse, violence, and exploitation, in order to uphold public confidence in the administration of justice. Where prosecutions have commenced, complainants and the affected children must be kept informed of the progress and next steps.

The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) and the Department of Social Welfare (JKM) must urgently review and strengthen the regulation and monitoring of all welfare and faith-based homes. Enforcement agencies must also ensure that investigations are conducted promptly, professionally, and with due sensitivity to child victims. Private children’s homes must be properly regulated and held accountable to care and protection standards.

With Malaysia due for review before the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child next year, this is an important opportunity for the Government to demonstrate meaningful commitment to upholding children’s rights through accountability, enforcement, and the effective prosecution of crimes against children.

To ensure systemic accountability and reform, SUHAKAM reiterates its call for the establishment of a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to investigate the alleged abuses and examine the governance of welfare institutions entrusted with the care of children. SUHAKAM further urges all relevant authorities to ensure that all rescued children, including those who have been reintegrated or returned to their families, are continuously monitored and provided with psychosocial support, safe accommodation, and access to justice, in line with Malaysia’s international human rights obligations. Such measures are essential to guarantee the sustained safety, recovery, and overall well-being of every child.

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 13 November 2025

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Media Statement No. 48-2025_SUHAKAM Urges Immediate Action to Protect Girls from Gender Based Violence

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

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

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

SUHAKAM therefore calls for:

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

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

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

-END

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 16 October 2025

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Media Statement No. 47-2025_World Day Against The Death Penalty: A Call For Humanity And Justice

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

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

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

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

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

-END-

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 10 October 2025

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Media Statement No. 44-2025_Clarification on SUHAKAM Investigation in Ulu Baram

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 4 October 2025

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Kenyataan Media No. 43-2025 (OCC)_Belanjawan 2026 Mesti Utamakan Kanak-Kanak

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

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Media Statement No. 41-2025_SUHAKAM Welcomes the Appointment of Its New Commissioners (2025-2028)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Kenyataan Media No. 40-2025 (OCC)_Penjelasan Mengenai Undang-undang Rogol Statutori: Melindungi Kanak-kanak daripada Eksploitasi

KUALA LUMPUR (24 September 2025) – Pejabat Pesuruhjaya Kanak-kanak (OCC), SUHAKAM ingin memberikan penjelasan kepada orang awam mengenai prinsip undang-undang berkaitan rogol statutori di bawah Seksyen 375(g) Kanun Keseksaan, khususnya berhubung isu persetujuan (consent) dan perlindungan kanak-kanak.

Undang-undang ini digubal atas asas bahawa kanak-kanak perempuan bawah umur 16 tahun tidak mempunyai kapasiti undang-undang untuk memberikan persetujuan kepada sebarang bentuk hubungan seksual. Ini bermakna, walaupun wujud keadaan yang dilihat sebagai “suka sama suka”, undang-undang tetap menganggap kanak-kanak perempuan sebagai mangsa. Rasionalnya ialah kanak-kanak perempuan masih belum matang dari segi fizikal, mental dan emosi, dan mudah terdedah kepada manipulasi, pujukan atau eksploitasi oleh pihak lain. Berikutan itu, kanak-kanak perempuan yang menjadi mangsa perlu dilindungi oleh undang-undang bagi mengelakkan trauma berganda dan memastikan mereka tidak dipersalahkan atau dihukum. Hukuman dalam kes ini hanya dikenakan kepada pihak lelaki yang melakukan perbuatan tersebut, sama ada lelaki dewasa atau kanak-kanak di bawah umur 18 tahun.

Bagi pelaku kanak-kanak lelaki, undang-undang membolehkan mereka didakwa, tetapi tertakluk kepada prinsip khas keadilan kanak-kanak. Menurut Seksyen 91 Akta Kanak-Kanak 2001 [Akta 611], mahkamah akan mengenakan perintah untuk kanak-kanak yang didapati bersalah seperti penempatan di sekolah diluluskan (Sekolah Tunas Bakti) dan Sekolah Henry Gurney. Pendekatan ini menyeimbangkan prinsip akauntabiliti dengan memberikan peluang kedua kepada kanak-kanak, agar pelaku kanak-kanak tidak dihukum seperti pesalah dewasa tetapi tetap bertanggungjawab dan diberikan pemulihan.

OCC menegaskan bahawa undang-undang rogol statutori bukan untuk menghukum kanak-kanak perempuan yang menjadi mangsa, tetapi untuk melindungi mereka daripada sebarang bentuk eksploitasi dan diskriminasi. Undang-undang ini mencerminkan komitmen Malaysia terhadap kepentingan terbaik kanak-kanak sebagaimana yang digariskan dalam Konvensyen Mengenai Hak Kanak-kanak 1989 (CRC) dan Akta 611.

OCC menyeru semua pihak, khususnya agensi penguatkuasa, pendidik dan masyarakat, untuk memahami dan mempertahankan prinsip ini. Melindungi kanak-kanak adalah tanggungjawab bersama, dan setiap mereka berhak mendapat perlindungan penuh daripada eksploitasi serta peluang untuk membesar dengan selamat dan sihat.

-TAMAT-

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

Tarikh: 24 SEPTEMBER 2025

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Media Statement No. 39-2025_SUHAKAM Reaffirms the Importance of FOE in Malaysia

(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

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Media Statement No. 30-2025_SUHAKAM Welcomes Parliamentary Debate Of SUHAKAM 2023 Annual Report

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