Posts in category: Press Statement

(KUALA LUMPUR) 10 SEPTEMBER 2025 – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses grave concern over reports of the imminent executions of four Malaysian citizens, Datchinamurthy a/l Kataiah, Pannir Selvam Pranthaman, Saminathan a/l Selvaraju, and Lingkesvaran Rajendaren who are currently on death row in Singapore for drug-related offences.

SUHAKAM’s stance against the death penalty is rooted in our unwavering belief in justice, dignity, and the possibility of rehabilitation for all. The mandatory death sentence strips judges of the discretion to weigh the individual circumstances of each case, undermining the principles of fairness that should form the foundation of any legal system.

Although Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) permits the use of the death penalty only for the “most serious” crimes, SUHAKAM emphasizes that the Human Rights Committee, which interprets the Covenant, has consistently ruled that drug-related offences do not meet this standard.

The planned execution violates Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which affirms that “everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.” The irreversible nature of the death penalty, particularly in cases with significant mitigating factors, erodes the core values of human dignity and justice.

In line with Malaysia’s own reform path, including the abolition of the mandatory death penalty in 2023, SUHAKAM reiterates its opposition to the death penalty in all circumstances, and stresses that the use of capital punishment for drug offences is both unlawful and disproportionate.

SUHAKAM therefore urges the Malaysian Government to:

1. Take all possible diplomatic and legal measures to safeguard the rights and lives of Malaysian citizens on death row abroad.
2. Engage international and regional human rights mechanisms to ensure their cases receive due consideration; and
3. Continue Malaysia’s leadership role in advocating for the progressive abolition of the death penalty at the regional and international levels.

SUHAKAM stands firm in advocating for justice, compassion, and the inherent rights of all individuals, regardless of nationality or circumstance and will continue to support efforts to protect the rights of Malaysians overseas and to advance the broader movement towards the abolition of the death penalty.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 10 September 2025

PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA (8 SEPTEMBER 2025) – Today, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) and the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) signed a four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) commencing on 8 September 2025.

The MoU was signed by SUHAKAM’s Chairman, Dato’ Seri Mohd Hishamudin Yunus, and HRCM’s President, Ms. Mariyam Muna. The MoU formalises the intention of both national human rights institutions (NHRIs) to strengthen cooperation through consultations, information exchange, capacity building, knowledge sharing and the exchange of experiences in the promotion and protection of human rights at national, regional and international levels.

The Republic of Maldives, by its constitution, a democratic Republic based on the principles of Islam, acceded to UNCAT on 20 April 2004, and ratified the Optional Protocol (OPCAT) on 15 February 2006. In April 2008, as prescribed under the OPCAT, the government of the Maldives legislatively designated HRCM as the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM).

By this MoU, SUHAKAM, through the HCRM, seeks to draw on the experiences and best practices of the Republic of Maldives. This knowledge exchange is expected to strengthen SUHAKAM’s advocacy for Malaysia’s accession to UNCAT, particularly, in addressing issues relating to the compatibility of UNCAT with Shari’ah law. At the same time, HRCM expresses interest in learning from SUHAKAM’s initiative in human rights education, particularly, the Human Rights Best Practices (ATHAM) in Schools programmes, designed to inculcate awareness and understanding of human rights among teachers and students in schools.

The MoU underscores the commitments of both SUHAKAM and HRCM to strengthen bilateral cooperation by focusing on training and capacity building vide the Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA), technical assistance, and the sharing of expertise on areas including, but not limited to, UNCAT, Shari’ah law and human rights education as well as any other mutually agreed areas of collaboration.

Both institutions hope that this MoU will provide a meaningful platform for stakeholders in Malaysia and the Maldives to engage in constructive dialogue on human rights issues and to advance the shared objectives of the agreement.

The MoU signing ceremony was held in conjunction with the Closed-Door High-Level Dialogue on Torture Prevention at The Everly Putrajaya, Putrajaya, on 8 September 2025. The dialogue was officiated by SUHAKAM’s Chairman, Dato’ Seri Mohd Hishamudin Yunus, whilst HRCM’s President, Ms. Mariyam Muna, participated as a resource person, sharing HCRM’s expertise and the Republic of the Maldives’s experience in harmonising international human rights frameworks with Islamic Principles in acceding to UNCAT.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM)
Date: 8 September 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (28 AUGUST 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the tabling of the Gig Workers Bill 2025 as an important step towards recognising and protecting the rights of gig economy workers in Malaysia. Gig workers, including e-hailing and p-hailing drivers as well as freelancers across various sectors, play a vital role in supporting Malaysia’s economy and providing essential services to the public.

By introducing legal recognition and extending social and workplace protections, the Bill marks a positive move towards addressing long-standing vulnerabilities faced by gig workers. These include gaps in social protection, uncertainty in employment status, lack of dispute resolution mechanisms, and insufficient safeguards for fair remuneration and occupational safety.

At the same time, SUHAKAM believes that further refinements are necessary to ensure that the Bill fully delivers on its promise of dignity and fairness for gig workers while maintaining the genuine flexibility that makes the gig economy attractive to many and an important engine of economic growth.

Therefore, SUHAKAM wishes to recommend the following:

i.          A clear framework to ensure guaranteed minimum payment rates, either by hours worked or tasks completed, including clarity on deductions for contributions and the timeline for wage payments by service providers.

ii.         Mandatory contributions by service providers to PERKESO/EPF must be enforced, with legal action taken against non-compliant companies.

iii.        Right to privacy must be respected and workers’ personal data should not be misused for rating or scoring systems, consistent with Article 12 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

iv.        Access to legal aid should be extended to gig workers, covering legal advice and representation at tribunals. The National Legal Aid Foundation’s (YBGK’s) resources should be strengthened to enable support for gig workers.

v.         Gig workers must be explicitly permitted to unionise under the Industrial Relations Act 1967 (Revised 1976) (Act 177) (IRA) and engage in collective bargaining to ensure their voices are heard in shaping fairer working conditions.

SUHAKAM further emphasises that the establishment of the Special Gig Economy Workers Commission (SEGIM) must consider that gig workers’ issues are cross-cutting in nature, involving multiple ministries. Effective coordination is therefore essential to ensure comprehensive protection and coherent policy responses.

In line with its statutory mandate to advise and assist the Government on matters relating to human rights, SUHAKAM regrets that it was not consulted in the drafting of the Bill, despite the recent amendment of the SUHAKAM Act which further strengthens its advisory role. SUHAKAM also expresses concern that the Government only made the Bill public at a very last stage in the legislative process. SUHAKAM should have been formally included in the consultation process. Therefore, SUHAKAM urges the Ministry concerned that at the Second Reading stage of the Bill in Parliament the Bill is not passed as yet. Instead the Bill ought to be submitted to the appropriate Parliamentary Select Committee for detail scrutiny by the PSC of the provisions of the Bill.

SUHAKAM stands ready to work with the Government and relevant stakeholders to ensure that the legislation is consistent with human rights principles and contributes to the goal of decent work for all.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 28 August 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (19 OGOS 2025) - SUHAKAM mengambil maklum mengenai pertuduhan yang akan dikenakan terhadap lima orang kanak-kanak dalam kes melibatkan Allahyarhamah Zara Qairina Mahathir. Kami menggesa orang awam, terutamanya pihak media untuk melaksanakan tanggungjawab dengan mematuhi perkara berikut:

1. Kanak-kanak berhak mendapat perlindungan penuh di bawah Akta Kanak-Kanak 2001 [Akta 611], termasuk sokongan berasaskan trauma, khidmat perundangan dan layanan yang adil.

2. ⁠Identiti mereka tidak boleh didedahkan secara langsung atau tidak langsung. Nama, gambar, sekolah atau sebarang maklumat yang boleh membawa kepada pengenalan diri mereka tidak boleh didedahkan kepada umum. Seksyen 15 Akta 611 tersebut memperuntukkan kesalahan boleh dihukum bagi mana-mana pihak yang menerbitkan sebarang maklumat yang boleh mengenal pasti kanak-kanak yang terlibat dalam prosiding mahkamah. Hukuman termasuk denda sehingga RM10,000 atau penjara sehingga 5 tahun, atau kedua-duanya sekali.

3. Mahkamah Bagi Kanak-Kanak adalah mahkamah tertutup di bawah Seksyen 12 Akta 611. Hanya pihak yang terlibat secara langsung dibenarkan hadir. Privasi kanak-kanak mesti dihormati.

Fokus utama SUHAKAM adalah untuk mencegah daripada berlakunya stigma terhadap kanak-kanak yang terlibat. Kami ingin mengingatkan orang awam bahawa perbuatan membuli, sama ada di sekolah mahupun dalam talian, sama sekali tidak boleh diterima.

Platform media sosial seperti Facebook, Instagram dan TikTok digesa untuk mengemaskini dasar dalaman serta piawaian komuniti mereka bagi mengenal pasti dan memadam secara proaktif apa-apa kandungan yang melanggar Seksyen 15 Akta 611. Sebarang kandungan yang diterbitkan dan boleh mengenal pasti kanak-kanak berpotensi menambah mudarat kepada mereka, sama ada secara tidak sengaja atau berniat jahat. Untuk mengambil tindakan menurunkan kandungan hanya selepas menerima permohonan mungkin membolehkan bahan yang menyalahi undang-undang dan berbahaya tersebar secara meluas, sekali gus menggagalkan tujuan perlindungan undang-undang. Kegagalan untuk bertindak segera boleh menyebabkan mudarat kepada kanak-kanak dan boleh dianggap bersubahat dalam pendedahan yang menyalahi undang-undang.

Keadilan perlu dilaksanakan mengikut prinsip hak kanak-kanak dan kedaulatan undang-undang.

-TAMAT-

Pejabat Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak (OCC)
Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) 
Tarikh: 19 Ogos 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (18 OGOS 2025) - Pejabat Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak (OCC), Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) menegaskan bahawa semua bentuk buli tidak boleh diterima sama sekali dan wajib ditangani dengan segera. Tingkah laku seumpama itu merupakan satu pelanggaran terhadap Konvensyen Pertubuhan Bangsa-Bangsa Bersatu Mengenai Hak Kanak-Kanak (CRC) yang telah diratifikasi oleh Malaysia, dan merupakan kesalahan yang boleh dihukum di bawah undang-undang Malaysia termasuklah melalui pindaan baharu Seksyen 507B – 507G Kanun Keseksaan. Semua kanak-kanak berhak untuk bersekolah dan tinggal di asrama tanpa rasa takut, gangguan atau keganasan.

Dalam hal ini, OCC mencadangkan supaya diwujudkan suatu Portal Sehenti Anti-Buli di seluruh negara yang bersifat inklusif bagi menguruskan laporan buli secara fizikal, buli siber dan buli di institusi. Portal ini perlu bersifat mesra kanak-kanak, menggunakan pelbagai bahasa serta boleh diakses oleh kanak-kanak kelainan upaya, dengan menyediakan video bahasa isyarat, pilihan teks serta audio. Ia juga hendaklah membolehkan kanak-kanak membuat laporan secara tanpa nama bagi menjamin keselamatan dan memudahkan mereka untuk menjejaki status laporan tersebut. Selain itu, platform ini juga perlu menyediakan panduan langkah demi langkah serta pautan segera bagi kes kecemasan, isu kesihatan mental, masalah di sekolah dan insiden siber, dengan menghubungkan pengguna terus kepada pihak berkuasa yang berkaitan seperti Talian Kasih, KPM, MARA, PDRM, JKM dan MCMC. Selain itu, ia perlu mempunyai pautan terus ke platform media sosial bagi permohonan menurunkan kandungan. Kaedah luar talian seperti SMS dan kotak aduan di sekolah serta institusi juga harus disediakan.

Di samping itu, semua sekolah dan asrama seharusnya diwajibkan untuk mempunyai Dasar Perlindungan Kanak-Kanak yang ditandatangani oleh guru, warden dan ibu bapa, serta dibangunkan dengan mengambil kira pandangan kanak-kanak. Dasar ini perlu merangkumi klausa anti-buli, prosedur pelaporan yang jelas, langkah perlindungan mangsa dan latihan wajib. Ibu bapa, Persatuan Ibu Bapa dan Guru (PIBG) serta pihak sekolah perlu membuat ikrar rasmi untuk mencegah buli, menghadiri bengkel keibubapaan dan secara aktif mengikuti pelan intervensi untuk menangani isu anak-anak mereka.

Guru memainkan peranan penting dalam mewujudkan persekitaran pembelajaran yang selamat dan inklusif. Pada masa ini, sukatan pelajaran hak kanak-kanak di Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG) masih terhad skopnya kerana ia dibangunkan tanpa perundingan atau input daripada OCC. Bagi memastikan keselarasan dengan CRC, OCC mencadangkan supaya sukatan pelajaran ini disemak oleh OCC dan diperkukuh dengan sewajarnya. Selain itu, OCC juga mengambil maklum bahawa modul hak asasi manusia yang dibangunkan bersama IPG, yang merangkumi satu bab mengenai hak kanak-kanak, masih lagi bersifat pilihan. Justeru, kami mendesak agar modul ini diwajibkan untuk semua guru pelatih di IPG serta diperluas kepada guru yang sedang berkhidmat di seluruh negara, supaya setiap pendidik dilengkapi dengan pengetahuan yang dapat melindungi, menegakkan dan mempromosikan hak kanak-kanak.

OCC turut menyeru Kerajaan, Kementerian Pendidikan, sekolah, guru, ibu bapa dan masyarakat untuk mengambil tindakan segera. Penguatkuasaan undang-undang, penambahbaikan saluran pelaporan dan perlindungan terhadap privasi kanak-kanak, sama ada yang menjadi mangsa mahupun yang didakwa sebagai pelaku, adalah penting. Membuli bukanlah budaya kita; sebaliknya, ia merupakan pelanggaran hak kanak-kanak yang mesti dihapuskan sepenuhnya.

-TAMAT-

Pejabat Pesuruhjaya Kanak-Kanak (OCC)
Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) 
Tarikh: 18 Ogos 2025

ARREST OF EGYPTIAN STUDENT IN MALAYSIA: CONCERNS OVER FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND HUMAN RIGHTS OBLIGATIONS

KUALA LUMPUR (9 AUGUST 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses concern over the recent arrest of Egyptian university student, Mohammed Marwan, by Malaysian authorities following his peaceful protest outside the Egyptian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.

While SUHAKAM does not condone acts of vandalism or the defacement of property as a form of protest, we emphasise that any expression of opinion, particularly when carried out in a non-violent and conscientious manner, should be addressed proportionately and in accordance with human rights principles. Marwan’s message, in solidarity with civilians in Gaza, reflects a humanitarian concern that is widely shared by Malaysians. The right to freedom of expression is protected under Article 10(1)(a) of the Federal Constitution and Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

SUHAKAM takes note of the update from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) confirming that Marwan has been released from custody and that, no deportation has taken place. This outcome is a positive development. It is also in line with Malaysia’s obligations under international human rights law, including the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning individuals to countries where they may face torture, persecution, or inhumane treatment.

Nonetheless, SUHAKAM remains concerned that the arrest took place in the first instance, given that the act in question was peaceful and falls within the scope of protected expression. The circumstances of the arrest raise important questions about how the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are interpreted and applied in practice.

Malaysia has long held a firm stance in support of humanitarian justice, particularly concerning the plight of the Palestinian people. This position has been echoed by many in Malaysian society, including the highest levels of government. In this context, the arrest of a student for expressing solidarity with the same cause may send a conflicting message and risks undermining public trust in the consistency of Malaysia’s human rights commitments.

SUHAKAM urges all authorities and institutions to remain vigilant in upholding the fundamental freedoms guaranteed under national and international law. Malaysia must ensure that its legal processes and enforcement mechanisms are not influenced by external pressures in ways that compromise these rights.

As a matter of principle, no individual, regardless of nationality, should be penalised for peacefully exercising their conscience in support of justice, human dignity, and the protection of civilians from violence. Upholding these values is vital to preserving Malaysia’s standing as a nation committed to human rights and the rule of law.

-TAMAT-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 9 August 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (2 AUGUST 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) warmly welcomes the designation of YBrs. Dr. Farah Nini binti Dusuki, a Human Rights Commissioner, as the Chief Children Commissioner until the completion of her three-year term as Commissioner on 8 March 2026.

SUHAKAM also warmly welcomes the appointments of Dr. Mohd Al Adib bin Samuri, Dr. Zufar Yadi Brendan bin Abdullah and Puan Melissa binti Mohd Akhir as Human Rights Commissioners, effective 28 June 2025. Dr. Mohd Al Adib bin Samuri and Dr. Zufar Yadi Brendan bin Abdullah are also simultaneously designated as Children Commissioners.

These appointments and designations by His Majesty Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the recommendations of the Prime Minister under section 5 and section 6A of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 [Act 597], reflect the Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the protection and promotion of children’s rights in Malaysia. SUHAKAM is confident that the experience, expertise, and unwavering dedication of the new Commissioners will enhance the Commission’s efforts to safeguard the rights and well-being of all children, including those who are undocumented and in conflict with the law.

Dr. Farah Nini Dusuki, appointed as a Commissioner on 8 March 2023, and administratively designated as a Children Commissioner, is an academic at the Faculty of Law, University of Malaya, with over 32 years of experience in child rights and human rights. She holds a PhD in child law from Cardiff University and has served as a consultant to various government agencies and NGOs. As a Children Commissioner, she has been actively involved in legal reforms, child complaint mechanisms, and raising public awareness on urgent child rights issues.

Dr. Mohd Al Adib Samuri, an academic at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, specialises in child rights within the Islamic legal framework. He earned his PhD in law focusing on children in conflict with the law and works closely with ministries, UNICEF, and civil society on issues like education rights, child marriage, and refugee children.

Dr. Zufar Yadi Brendan Abdullah brings 38 years of experience in social research, policy, and community development in Sarawak. A member of the Sarawak Social Development Council, he has led various volunteer initiatives on child rights and holds a PhD in Human Development from the United Kingdom.

Puan Melissa Mohd Akhir is a child rights expert with over 20 years of experience in law and protection across Southeast Asia. She holds a Master of Laws in International Children’s Rights from Leiden University and previously served as a Deputy Public Prosecutor at the Attorney General Chambers. She played a key role in drafting child protection legislation and now focuses on access to justice and parliamentary advocacy.

SUHAKAM hopes that these appointments and designations will support and enhance institutional responses to key child rights issues, particularly in ensuring access to quality education, robust child protection mechanisms, and a just and rehabilitative juvenile justice system.

We look forward to working collaboratively in building an inclusive and child-centred Malaysia in line with the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the Child Act 2001. SUHAKAM remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that every child in Malaysia is protected, heard, and allowed to thrive.

-TAMAT-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 2 August 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (1 August 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses deep concern over reports that a 14-year-old male student has been remanded 2-days for allegedly punching and threatening a schoolteacher after being reprimanded for skipping a physical education class.

SUHAKAM stands in solidarity with the teacher involved and reiterates that violence in any form is unacceptable. Every individual, whether teacher, student, or staff has the right to a safe and respectful environment in which to teach and learn.

However, SUHAKAM also strongly emphasises that children who come into conflict with the law must be treated in a manner that upholds their dignity, rights, and potential for rehabilitation, as guaranteed under the Child Act 2001 [Act 611] (‘Child Act’) and Malaysia’s international commitments, including the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (‘CRC’) adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 20 November 1989.

Whilst the nature of this case is serious, the student is protected under section 15 of the Child Act which prohibits the media from revealing any identifying details of a child involved in criminal or custody proceedings from media exposure or public condemnation. This provision reflects the spirit of Article 16 of the CRC which upholds every child’s right to privacy and protection from unlawful interference with their honour and reputation.  SUHAKAM reminds all media outlets and the public to respect the privacy of the child. Public identification, speculation, or vilification of minors is harmful and may breach this provision.

In light of this and similar incidents, SUHAKAM urgently calls on the Government of Malaysia to establish and implement a formal Diversion Policy for children in conflict with the law, in collaboration with stakeholders such as the police, welfare services, schools, and the judiciary.

A diversion mechanism allows children accused of minor or non-violent offences to be redirected away from the criminal justice system into community-based programmes focused on education, counselling, and behavioural support. This approach would not only reduce the risk of criminalisation and social stigma but also address underlying issues such as trauma, neglect, or mental health. Such a policy is not a denial of accountability, but a shift towards restorative and rehabilitative justice which is proven to be more effective and humane for children.

This incident should serve as a catalyst for reflection on broader systemic issues, prompting urgent consideration of whether schools have sufficient proactive and positive behavioural support systems, whether students have timely access to mental health services, and whether teachers are adequately equipped with conflict resolution and trauma-informed strategies. 

SUHAKAM therefore urges the Ministry of Education, school administrators, and relevant stakeholders to strengthen holistic, preventive support systems that prioritise the well-being of both students and educators.

Malaysia must move beyond punitive responses and embrace a child justice system that reflects compassion, equity, and the best interests of the child. SUHAKAM remains committed to working with the government and civil society to realise this vision.

-TAMAT-

Dr Farah Nini Dusuki
Children’s Commissioner
The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) 

Date: 1 August 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (30 JULY 2025) In conjunction with the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) reaffirms its unwavering stance that no human being should ever be trafficked, exploited, or treated as a commodity. Human trafficking is a heinous crime and a fundamental violation of human rights, dignity, and freedom. SUHAKAM reaffirms its commitment to upholding the fundamental rights and dignity of all individuals, and to supporting national and international efforts to combat human trafficking in all its forms.

This year’s theme – “Campaign to highlight the vital role of law enforcement and the criminal justice system in dismantling organised trafficking networks while ensuring a victim-centred approach”- is timely and crucial. As trafficking networks become more complex and transnational, a coordinated, right-based, and victim-focused response is critical.

Human trafficking is a severe violation of human rights and dignity, and it undermines Malaysia’s constitutional values and international obligations.

This position is firmly rooted in Malaysia’s domestic and international legal commitments. Article 5(1) of the Federal Constitution of Malaysia guarantees that “no person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty save in accordance with the law”, whilst Article 6 of the same explicitly prohibits slavery and forced labour. These constitutional guarantees align with Malaysia’s obligations under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), including Article 4, which prohibits slavery and servitude, and Article 5, which affirms that “no one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.”

Malaysia is also a State Party to key international instruments, including the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) and its Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children (Palermo Protocol), ratified in 2009. Whilst Malaysia’s recent elevation to Tier 2 in the United States Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report 2024 marks some progress, SUHAKAM would like to stress here that this should not lead to complacency. Every statistic represents a life of a person stripped of freedom and dignity.

SUHAKAM remains committed to working with our key stakeholders, including the Council for Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (MAPO), enforcement agencies, and civil society organisations to:

1. Strengthen victim-centred protection and rehabilitation mechanisms.
2. Improve law enforcement responses and prosecution of trafficking cases.
3. Promote transparency in labour recruitment and dismantle exploitative syndicates.
4. Urge the institutionalisation of a robust framework to better protect the rights and welfare of migrant workers.
5. Accelerating the full implementation of the National Action Plan on Anti-Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP 3.0) 2021-2025.
6. Enhancing data collection and public reporting to support evidence-based policymaking and improve accountability.

Human trafficking can only be effectively addressed through a whole of government and whole of society cooperating. Every institution has a role to play, from enforcement and prosecution to rehabilitation and prevention. Crucially, responses must always uphold the dignity, rights and best interest of the victim.

As Malaysia moves forward in building a just and inclusive society, SUHAKAM will continue to speak up against all forms of human trafficking. No person, regardless of status, background or origin, should be treated as invisible. No one deserves to live in bondage.

Let us mark this day not only with words, but through sustained and meaningful action until the chains of exploitation are broken. Human dignity is non-negotiable. Freedom is a right, not a privilege.

-TAMAT-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 30 July 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (25 JULAI 2025) Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) merakamkan setinggi-tinggi penghargaan kepada Kerajaan Malaysia, khususnya kepada YB Dato’ Sri Azalina Othman Said, Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Undang-undangdan Reformasi Institusi), atas komitmen berterusan beliau dalam memastikan pembentangan dan perbahasan LaporanTahunan SUHAKAM 2023 berjaya dilaksanakan di Dewan Rakyat pada 24 Julai 2025.

Ini merupakan satu langkah penting ke hadapan dalam memperkukuh mekanisme semak dan imbang institusi serta prinsip ketelusan dan kebertanggungjawaban dalam tadbir urus awam. Seramai 39 Ahli Parlimen telah mengambil bahagian dalam perbahasan ini, mengutarakan pelbagai isu penting berkaitan hak asasi manusia yang meliputi kerangka undang-undang, kebajikan, kesejahteraan sosial dan integriti institusi.

Antara isu utama yang diketengahkan termasuk:

i.     Kelewatan pelantikan Pengerusi dan Pesuruhjaya SUHAKAM, berserta cadangan untuk mempertingkat ketelussan dan keterangkuman dalam proses pemilihan.

ii.    Keadaan daif di lokap dan pusat tahanan, termasuk kematian dalam tahanan, kesesakan, perkhidmatan kesihatan yang tidak mencukupi serta penggunaan sistem ‘bucket’ yang masih digunakan di Papar dan Miri.

iii.   Pelaksanaan penahanan tanpa perbicaraan di bawah Akta Kesalahan Keselamatan (Langkah-Langkah Khas) 2012 (SOSMA), dengan gesaan supaya moratorium dilaksanakan dan penubuhan Mahkamah Khas bagi mempercepatkan proses keadilan.

iv.   Isu hak tanah Orang Asli/Asal, dengan penekanan kepada keperluan mendesak untuk mengiktiraf dan mewartakan tanah adat.

v.    Cabaran kewarganegaraan dan status tanpa kerakyatan, khususnya melibatkan kanak-kanak tidak berdokumen, serta keperluan untuk memperkenalkan unit pendaftaran bergerak oleh agensi kerajaan berkaitan.

vi.   Hak sosio-ekonomi kumpulan rentan termasuk pekerja gig dan e-hailing yang masih belum dilindungi secara menyeluruh di bawah kerangka undang-undang sedia ada.

vii. Diskriminasi kaum, agama dan xenofobia yang berleluasa, yang memerlukan usaha menyeluruh melalui pendidikan inklusif dan dasar kebangsaan.

viii.           Gesaan agar pelaksanaan syor SUHAKAM diperkukuh, termasuk cadangan untuk menubuhkanJawatankuasa Pilihan Khas Parlimen (PSC) bagi memantau tindakan susulan.

SUHAKAM menghargai maklum balas konstruktif dan komitmen daripada pelbagai kementerian serta agensi berkaitan terhadap isu-isu hak asasi manusia yang mendesak. Ini termasuk usaha memperbaiki akses kepada air bersih dan penjagaan kesihatan awam di kawasan pedalaman, memperluas Unit Kesihatan Dalam Tahanan (CHU) di pusat tahanan, mengintegrasikan pendidikan hak asasi manusiayang selaras dengan nilai Islam, serta memperkenalkan reformasi undang-undang dan dasar yang memberi manfaat kepada masyarakat Orang Asli, orang kurang upaya (OKU), dan pekerja ekonomi gig. SUHAKAM turut mengambil maklum sokongan berterusan Malaysia terhadap isu-isu kemanusiaan antarabangsa, terutamanya yang berkaitan dengan konflik di Palestin.

Laporan Tahunan 2023 menekankan tujuh bidang utama iaitu:

1. Hak kanak-kanak, wanita, warga emas, OKU dan komuniti Orang Asli/Asal.

2. Hak banduan dan penahanan yang adil.
3. Isu perkauman, diskriminasi berdasarkan agama dan kebencian.
4. Hak ekonomi, sosial dan kebudayaan (ESCR).
5. Perniagaan dan hak asasi manusia.
6. Reformasi undang-undang serta kerjasama serantau dan antarabangsa.
7. Reformasi institusi dalam SUHAKAM termasuk pendigitalan operasi.

SUHAKAM ingin merakamkan penghargaan khas kepada YB Senator Dato’ Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Naim bin Haji Mokhtar, Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Hal Ehwal Agama), atas komitmen dan sokongan beliau dalam memajukan wacana hak asasi manusia dalam kerangka Islam. Usaha beliau dalam mempromosikankefahaman inklusif dan penyelarasan antara maqasid syariah dan prinsip hak asasi sejagat amat dihargai.

SUHAKAM turut menyampaikan penghargaan istimewa kepada YB Tuan M. Kulasegaran A/L V. Murugeson, Timbalan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Undang-undang dan Reformasi Institusi), atas peenggulungan perbahasan dan dedikasi beliau dalam memajukan agenda hak asasi manusia demi kesejahteraan rakyat Malaysia.

SUHAKAM menegaskan bahawa iltizam politik amat penting, bukan sekadar hanya dalam membentang dan membahas Laporan Tahunan, tetapi pelaksanaan tindakan susulan terhadap isu-isu yang dibangkitkan. Laporan ini berfungsi sebagai platform kepada Parlimen dan semua pihak berkepentingan untuk menyuarakan isu, berkongsi pandangan serta yang paling penting, mendorong tindakan segera oleh agensi kerajaan dalam melaksanakan cadangan SUHAKAM.

Hak asasi manusia pada asasnya berpaksikan maruah, kesaksamaan dan kebertanggungjawaban. SUHAKAM menegaskan bahawa Laporan Tahunan ini bukan sekadar satu keperluan prosedur, tetapi merupakan mekanisma kebertanggungjawaban yang penting dalam menilai kemajuan negara dalam menjunjung hak asasi manusia.

SUHAKAM mengalu-alukan kerjasama berterusan dengan Kerajaan, Ahli Parlimen, organisasi masyarakat sivil dan sektor swasta demi memastikan hak setiap individu di Malaysia dihormati, dilindungi dan dipenuhi.

Untuk maklumat lanjut dan membaca Laporan Tahunan SUHAKAM 2023 sepenuhnya, orang ramai dijemput melayari laman web rasmi SUHAKAM di: https://suhakam.org.my/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Laporan-Tahunan-2023-SUHAKAM.pdf

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia(SUHAKAM)

Tarikh: 25 Julai 2025