Posts in category: Press Statement

KUALA LUMPUR (23 JANUARY 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) reaffirms that human rights are universal, inalienable and must not be predicated upon religious beliefs or affiliations. This principle is enshrined in international human rights instruments, which unequivocally state that all individuals are entitled to the same fundamental rights and freedoms, regardless of their religion or belief.

Recent statements by U.S. officials asserting a ‘biblical right’ to certain territories are concerning, as they risk undermining the universality of human rights and may perpetuate discrimination. On Tuesday, at the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, United States ambassador to the United Nations Elise Stefanik has expressed the belief that Israel has “biblical” dominion over the occupied West Bank. Such assertions can lead to policies that discriminate against individuals based on their religious identity, contravening established international human rights standards.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) proclaims in Article 1 that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”. Article 2 further emphasizes that everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in the Declaration, without distinction of any kind including religion. Additionally, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) guarantees the right to self-determination and protection from discrimination, reinforcing that no state or individual should invoke religious doctrine to deny these rights to others.

SUHAKAM is deeply concerned about the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, including recent military operations resulting in civilian casualties and the destruction of essential infrastructure.  Therefore, SUHAKAM urges the international community to intensify efforts towards a just and sustainable peace in the region, addressing the root causes of the conflict without bias or discrimination. This includes recognizing the rights of all peoples to self-determination and ensuring that policies are grounded in universal human rights principles rather than religious narratives.

SUHAKAM supports the ceasefire agreement in Gaza as a crucial step towards solving the crisis and protecting civilian lives. The international community must not allow the ceasefire to overshadow the need for comprehensive action towards ending the occupation, restoring the rights of the Palestinian people and holding accountable those responsible for crimes against humanity.

-TAMAT-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 23 January 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (22 JANUARY 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) is deeply concerned with the behaviour of individuals taking the law into their own hands. Recently, a heartbreaking incident occurred at Pasar Tani Padang Astaka Chukai, Kemaman Terengganu, where a 47-year-old victim being a person with mental disabilities was viciously assaulted following his accidental collision into a stall. The police have arrested six suspects aged 18 to 60 years to assist in the investigation pursuant to section 147 Penal Code for the offence of rioting.

The level of violence used was manifestly excessive, profoundly disturbing and humiliating whereby the victim was attacked bodily, mercilessly dragged on the streets and had spicy soup poured on him. It is even more concerning that the perpetrators would behave in such a manner to a mentally disabled person. The use of violence is never acceptable. The public / bystanders have the power to make a significant difference in preventing the escalation of violence by speaking out loudly against it while making it clear such incident will neither be tolerated nor condoned.

SUHAKAM commends the police for the speedy action in arresting the suspects; and calls on the same to expeditiously investigate the incident and accordingly prosecute the wrongdoers, ensuring justice for the victim.

Malaysia is committed to upholding the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which includes the essential duty to protect them from harm as stipulated in Article 16 of the Convention. It is vital to recognise that every individual including those with disabilities has the inherent right to life and liberty, as decreed by Article 5 of the Federal Constitution. 

It is imperative that the authorities take the necessary measures to deter irresponsible members of the public from taking the law into their own hands. Mob justice has no place in a civilised society that upholds the Rule of Law. It is crucial to remember that no one is above the law.

SUHAKAM believes that it is essential for all government agencies, civil society organisations, and the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (Majlis Kebangsaan bagi Orang Kurang Upaya – MKBOKU) to join forces in solidarity to protect PWDs by expressing our abhorrence for mob justice. We must raise our voices to create an environment where PWDs are recognised and treated with respect and dignity.

In line with the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 [Act 597] and section 9(1)(i) of the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 [Act 685], SUHAKAM together with MKBOKU, have the important responsibility to promote education and awareness on the need for respect towards PWDs.

SUHAKAM calls for the prompt cessation of these detestable behaviours by members of the public and calls for the imposition of appropriate punitive measures on those who take the law into their own hands. Such actions are vital not only to uphold accountability but also to promote a culture that fosters a more caring environment that abhors violence within the community.

-TAMAT-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 22 January 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (18 JANUARY 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) is deeply perturbed by the statement made by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, that any officer with the rank of inspector or higher is authorised to inspect a person’s mobile phone at police roadblocks, citing that this is permitted under the Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code (CPC), Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA) and Police Act 1967.

SUHAKAM highlights that pursuant to section 116B CPC, a police officer with the rank of inspector or higher is only permitted to access mobile or other digital devices subject to a legal search as part of an ongoing investigation whereby the police have reasonable cause to believe that an offence has been or is being committed.  Sections 247 and 248 CMA also require the search and seizure of the digital device to be conducted in connection with an ongoing investigation, having reasonable cause to believe that an offence has been committed. 

SUHAKAM reiterates that the inspection of a person’s mobile phone at police roadblocks cannot be conducted in an arbitrary manner. The public is encouraged to be aware of their basic fundamental rights, in particular when stopped, questioned or even arrested by the police. The Malaysian Bar Council has issued a booklet titled “The Police and Your Basic Rights” that lists scenarios with the police and what you can do to exercise your rights as a citizen.

SUHAKAM urges the Government to clarify the IGP’s statement. The public is reminded that if they encounter an arbitrary search where their mobile devices are searched without reasonable cause, to note down where the incident happened, the name and identification number on the police officer’s uniform and to lodge a police report as well as inform SUHAKAM via its complaints system:

1. email: complaints@suhakam.org.my
2. website: aduan.suhakam.org.my
3. contact via phone / walk into the offices in Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu (Sabah) or Kuching (Sarawak).

SUHAKAM reiterates the importance of every individual to be aware of their fundamental rights and for law enforcement officers to conduct these roadblocks in a lawful and responsible manner, with care and caution.

-TAMAT-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 18 January 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (17 JANUARY 2025) – SUHAKAM is aware of the public statement issued by Dr. Alfonso Min that has been carried by the online media. This matter involves personnel and administrative issues and SUHAKAM is fully aware of our responsibilities and duties. We are committed to ensuring that due process is followed and that all actions taken are in accordance with legal and procedural guidelines.

As this matter involves confidential issues of the employee’s conduct and records, SUHAKAM is committed to safeguarding the integrity of its processes and will not comment further as the due process according to our rules and regulations are ongoing and the employee will be given the opportunity to exercise his rights.

Despite the public statement, SUHAKAM would not be hindered or detracted from our duty to ensure compliance with all internal regulations, managerial prerogatives and within the ambit of laws relating to industrial relations.

-TAMAT-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 17 January 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (17 JANUARY 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its deepest condolences and outrage over the Israeli military’s attack that resulted in the tragic death of the Director of the Independent Commission for Human Rights (ICHR) in Gaza, Raafat Salha and his family. We stand in solidarity with Mr. Salha and all human rights defenders working under the most dangerous and difficult circumstances to uphold the fundamental rights of their communities.

We are appalled by the ongoing violence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories which continues to claim innocent lives, exacerbate human suffering and violate international humanitarian and human rights laws. The deliberate targeting of civilians, especially human rights defenders who play a vital role in advocating for justice and peace, represents a gross violation of human rights principles and international norms.

SUHAKAM echoes the concerns raised by the Independent Commission for Human Rights (ICHR) which is the ‘A’ status national human rights institution in Palestine and calls for an immediate, transparent and independent investigation into the attack. We urge the international community to intensify efforts to ensure accountability for these heinous crimes and to hold those responsible to account in accordance with international law.

While welcoming the recent ceasefire agreement in Gaza, SUHAKAM urges that it be the first step toward a lasting peace. We call on all parties to the conflict to adhere to their obligations under international law, protect the rights of civilians and cease all acts of violence. The protection of human rights defenders must be prioritized and impunity for the attackers on these defenders must end.

We also urge the United Nations, international human rights organizations and the global community to take urgent measures to protect Palestinian civilians and human rights defenders, as well as to ensure an immediate cessation of hostilities in the region. Peace and justice are indispensable for the dignity of all people and only through accountability and respect for human rights can a sustainable solution to the conflict be achieved.

SUHAKAM will continue to monitor the situation closely and work alongside other national human rights institutions and international bodies to support the protection of human rights defenders and the Palestinian people’s right to live in peace, security and dignity.

-TAMAT-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 17 January 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (15 JANUARI 2025) – Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM) telah menyiasat aduan yang diterima berkenaan kematian seorang tahanan warganegara Pakistan iaitu Jamshed Ahmed (Penama) di Depot Imigresen Bukit Jalil. Kematian tersebut dilaporkan berlaku pada 15 Januari 2024 dan SUHAKAM telah menjalankan siasatan di bawah Seksyen 12(1), Akta Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia 1999 [Akta 597].

Penama ditahan semasa serbuan yang dijalankan oleh Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia di rumahnya di Bukit Sentosa, Rawang pada 6 Januari 2024 lebih kurang jam 2.00 pagi dan telah ditahan di Depot Imigresen Bukit Jalil. Penama telah didapati tidak sihat dan berada dalam keadaan sangat lemah ketika berada di dalam sel. Pada 9 Januari 2024 Penama telah dibawa ke Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM) UKM untuk rawatan. Penama dilaporkan meninggal dunia pada 15 Januari 2024.

Berikut adalah hasil dapatan SUHAKAM berdasarkan siasatan yang dijalankan serta penelitian kesemua dokumen yang diterima:

i. Dakwaan Menafikan Hak Rawatan ke atas Penama

Aduan yang diterima oleh SUHAKAM mendakwa bahawa kematian Penama adalah berpunca dari penafian hak rawatan ke atas Penama oleh pihak Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia. Ini kerana, Penama mempunyai penyakit diabetes dan memerlukan pengambilan insulin setiap hari. Walau bagaimanapun, pengadu mendakwa bahawa Penama tidak diberikan insulin tersebut sehingga menyebabkan kematian berlaku. Hasil dapatan SUHAKAM mendapati bahawa dakwaan tersebut adalah berasas berdasarkan maklumat yang konsisten yang diperolehi dari keterangan pengadu, rakan tangkapan, anggota dan kakitangan Depot Imigresen Bukit Jalil serta Pegawai Perubatan dari HCTM UKM.

ii. Tiada Saringan Kesihatan Semasa Kemasukan dan Tiada Tindakan Susulan Saringan Kesihatan Selepas Kemasukan Tahanan

Prosedur kemasukan tahanan di Depot Imigresen mewajibkan saringan kesihatan awal perlu dilakukan ke atas tahanan. Di dalam kes Penama, tiada saringan awal dilakukan oleh pihak Imigresen semasa kemasukan. Ini memandangkan penahanan berlaku pada 6 Januari 2024 (Sabtu, hari cuti umum) sedangkan Penolong Pegawai Perubatan (PPP) hanya bertugas pada hari bekerja. SUHAKAM juga mendapati tiada tindakan susulan dilakukan pada 8 Januari 2024 (Isnin) untuk membuat saringan awal terhadap tahanan yang telah dikenalpasti mempunyai penyakit semasa kemasukan. PPP juga tidak mengetahui tentang penyakit Penama yang memerlukan ubat insulin setiap hari; sehinggalah Penama pengsan di dalam sel pada 9 Januari 2024. Berdasarkan fakta tersebut, SUHAKAM berpendapat bahawa wujudnya kecuaian dalam membuat saringan kesihatan awal dan pemberian insulin kepada Penama pada masa tersebut.

iii. Serahan Kes Tangkapan Lewat Kepada Pegawai Penyiasat

SUHAKAM dimaklumkan bahawa serbuan dan penahanan telah dibuat pada 6 Januari 2024 (Sabtu) dan Penama dibawa ke Depot Imigresen Bukit Jalil pada hari yang sama. Walau bagaimanapun, kes tersebut diserahkan kepada Pegawai Penyiasat Kes (IO Kes) dari Jabatan Imigresen hanya pada 8 Januari 2024 (Isnin) dan tindakan untuk mengambil keterangan hanya dijalankan pada 9 Januari 2024 (Selasa). Penama telah ditahan di dalam depot selama beberapa hari tanpa sebarang tindakan siasatan dijalankan. Sekiranya fail siasatan ini telah diserahkan kepada IO Kes pada hari tangkapan, siasatan awal dengan mengambil keterangan Penama boleh dijalankan. Ini membolehkan IO Kes dapat mengetahui penyakit yang dialami dan keperluan ubat bagi penyakitnya.

iv. Tiada Pegawai Penyiasat oleh Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) yang Mengendalikan Laporan Polis bagi Kematian dan Pemeriksaan Dari Koroner

SUHAKAM mendapati bahawa walaupun laporan polis bagi kematian Penama telah dibuat oleh Pegawai Depot Imigresen Bukit Jalil pada 15 Januari 2024, namun pihak PDRM tidak mengambil apa-apa tindakan untuk menugaskan mana-mana Pegawai Penyiasat dari PDRM untuk menyiasat kematian itu. Laporan polis tersebut hanya ‘dirujuk’ kepada pihak hospital. Oleh yang demikian, tiada sebarang siasatan telah dijalankan oleh Pegawai Penyiasat PDRM serta tiada pemeriksaan oleh Koroner telah dilaksanakan ke atas kematian tersebut mengikut Seksyen 337 Kanun Tatacara Jenayah dibaca bersama Arahan Amalan Ketua Hakim Negara Bil. 2 Tahun 2019.

v. Pemeriksaan Tahanan Semasa Kemasukan Tidak Menghormati Maruah Tahanan

Selain hasil dapatan berkaitan kes kematian Penama, SUHAKAM juga mendapati bahawa semua tahanan yang ditahan bersama Penama telah diarahkan untuk menanggalkan pakaian beramai-ramai bagi menjalani pemeriksaan fizikal. Dalam menjalankan pemeriksaan ini, hak privasi tahanan telah dinafikan. Setiap tahanan dan anggota yang ada di situ boleh melihat antara satu sama lain. Bagi tahanan wanita pula, mereka diarahkan untuk menanggalkan pakaian di dalam bilik air untuk tujuan pemeriksaan fizikal. Walau bagaimanapun, pintu bilik air tersebut dibiarkan terbuka sehingga menyebabkan semua orang yang lalu-lalang termasuk anggota lelaki boleh melihat tahanan wanita yang berada di dalam bilik air tersebut. SUHAKAM mendapati maklumat ini adalah konsisten dengan maklumat yang diberikan oleh rakan-rakan tangkapan.

Sehubungan itu, SUHAKAM mengesyorkan agar satu inkues kematian di bawah Seksyen 339 Kanun Tatacara Jenayah dibaca bersama Arahan Amalan Ketua Hakim Negara Bil. 2 Tahun 2019 dijalankan ke atas kes kematian Penama di Depot Imigresen Bukit Jalil. Ini hendaklah dilakukan dengan secepat mungkin bagi mengenalpasti punca kematian serta menentukan sama ada wujudnya elemen jenayah atau kecuaian berhubung dengan kematian Penama. SUHAKAM telah menghantar laporan siasatan ini kepada Jabatan Peguam Negara pada 26 Jun 2024 dengan mengesyorkan agar inkues dijalankan.

Satu surat susulan telah dikeluarkan pada 10 September 2024 selaras dengan seksyen 13(3) Akta Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia 1999 (Akta 597) untuk mendapatkan maklumbalas mengenai tindakan yang diambil oleh pihak berkuasa mengenai pelanggaran hak asasi manusia tersebut. SUHAKAM juga telah memaklumkan hasil siasatan kes ini kepada Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia dan PDRM pada 14 Jun 2024. Namun, sehingga hari ini tiada sebarang maklumbalas diterima oleh SUHAKAM.

Hari ini genap setahun kematian Penama dan SUHAKAM berharap pihak berkuasa akan mengambil tindakan yang sewajarnya demi menegakkan keadilan kepada semua pihak yang terlibat. 

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Tarikh: 15 Januari 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (11 JANUARY 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) has taken note of the cancelled picket and we wish to clarify on the issues raised by the concerned staff.

Firstly, SUHAKAM has yet to receive any formal confirmation regarding the legality or legitimacy of the alleged union involved in this action. Without such clarity, it is difficult to ascertain the true representation or mandate of the alleged group behind the picket. As an independent human rights institution, SUHAKAM operates in alignment with the government regulations which includes human resource management, finance and operational systems, where SUHAKAM is subjected to regular audits in accordance with prevailing circulars and regulations issued by the government. 

Recent concerns raised by some staff members regarding SUHAKAM’s restructuring exercise, specifically the proposed Flexi Grade system and related matters such as career progression, salary adjustments and performance evaluations, have prompted the need for clarification. SUHAKAM wishes to address these concerns in a transparent manner to prevent misunderstandings and to provide accurate information.

In 2024, SUHAKAM embarked on a significant restructuring initiative to enhance organizational efficiency and equity. A key component of this initiative was the introduction of the Flexi Grade system. This system aims to establish clear and fair pathways for career progression and remuneration for all staff members. Under this restructuring, the Deputy Secretaries’ Secretary (TSU, Grade 52) positions was upgraded aligned to Grade 54 to enable career progression for Principal Assistant Secretaries (KPSU, Grade 48) to advance their positions to Grade 52. This plan, which was initiated several years ago, has been meticulously deliberated in meetings such as the Jawatankuasa Pengukuhan Struktur Organisasi dan Perjawatan (JPSOP) and endorsed by the Commission. 

It is important to emphasize that the restructuring and Flexi Grade system are designed to ensure equal opportunities across all grades and this decision underscores SUHAKAM’s commitment to equitable advancement and negates claims that staff members have been denied salary increases and that increments are only meant for a selected few. The restructuring process is ongoing, with the goal of establishing clear and transparent career pathways for all officers and staff, ensuring their contributions are recognized within the restructuring timeline.

In response to concerns on the performance evaluations, SUHAKAM is implementing a 360-degree assessment framework, starting with the TSU position in 2024. This phased approach allows for refinement before extending the system to all other grades. The aim is to create a fair and comprehensive evaluation mechanism that benefits all staff members.

SUHAKAM is also reviewing the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) to better understand its framework and to assess its potential applicability within SUHAKAM as an independent Commission. A briefing session by the Prime Minister’s Department (JPM) is already in the works and scheduled on 21 January 2025 to better understand the SSPA framework and its potential applicability to SUHAKAM. Should any recommendations be adopted, they may be implemented retrospectively backdated to December 2024. This consultative process reflects SUHAKAM’s commitment to ensuring decisions are inclusive and aligned with the interests of all parties.

SUHAKAM is dedicated to engaging in constructive dialogues with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes for both the organization and our staff. SUHAKAM remains committed to ensuring that any restructuring or internal changes within the organization are handled with full transparency, fairness and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Our goal is to continue upholding the principles of human rights, including the right to fair labour practices, whilst while ensuring that SUHAKAM operates with integrity and efficiency in serving the public. We are confident that an amicable resolution will be reached through open dialogue and mutual understanding. We appreciate the public’s understanding as we work through these matters internally. 

-TAMAT-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 11 January 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (9 JANUARY 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) unequivocally reaffirms its independence and steadfast commitment to upholding the Paris Principles, that binds us to the best operational standard of a human rights institute.

SUHAKAM is guided by the government’s operational framework – specifically those governing governance, human resource management and emolument and undergoes regular audits in accordance with all relevant government circulars and standards. 

This rigorous oversight underscores SUHAKAM’s dedication to transparency, accountability and adherence to national regulations.

SUHAKAM is still studying the adaptability of the government’s new emolument scheme and is engaged with the relevant agencies. It is also in-line with SUHAKAM’s overall organisational restructuring programme that has begun since 2024, this initiative is aimed at bolstering organizational efficiency and ensuring equitable opportunities for all employees. 

SUHAKAM is open to discussion especially on how to best safeguard the interest of our employees and remains unwavering in our commitment to fostering a positive, collaborative work environment. 

We appreciate the public’s ongoing trust and reassure all stakeholders that SUHAKAM continues to uphold the highest standards of governmental oversight in emolument and operational matters. 

-TAMAT-

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

KUALA LUMPUR (19 DECEMBER 2024) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its deep concern over the decision of the Terengganu Syariah Court in the case of Mohd Affendi Awang, a 42-year-old carpenter, who was sentenced to six lashes in public after being convicted of repeated khalwat (close proximity) offences under Section 31(a) of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Takzir) (Terengganu) Enactment 2022. This punishment undermines human rights, dignity and the rule of law. The Commission takes note that the whipping under Syariah laws is different from civil law. Be that as it may, the sentence not only constitutes cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment but also raises serious questions regarding the legality of public caning under the Federal Constitution and federal law.

A Clear Breach of Human Rights

Public caning is an affront to human dignity and violates a basic principle enshrined in both international law and the Federal Constitution of Malaysia. Article 5 of the Constitution guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, which the courts have affirmed includes the right to live with dignity (Tan Tek Seng v Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Pendidikan [1996] 1 MLJ 261).

The public execution of such a punishment exacerbates its degrading nature, subjecting the individual to humiliation, anguish and shame. Such practice is not only inconsistent with human rights standards but it also dehumanizes the individual and perpetuates a cycle of stigma, rather than focusing on rehabilitation.

Jurisdictional Overreach and Legal Irregularities

SUHAKAM is of the view that the Terengganu Syariah Court, in imposing public whipping, exceeds its jurisdiction as conferred by federal law, namely, the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965 [Act 355], which only permits whipping and not public whipping.

Section 125(3)(c) of the Terengganu Syariah Criminal Procedure Enactment 2001, which permits the Syariah Court to direct the place of whipping to be before the public, is not envisaged by Act 355. The Commission is of the view that directing whipping before the public renders the punishment in excess of, or ultra vires to, Act 355, as well as to be in violation of the jurisdictional limitation imposed by Item 1 of the State List of the Federal Constitution.

The Need to Uphold Dignity and Rule of Law

Punishments that inflict physical violence and public humiliation have no place in a modern justice system. They undermine Malaysia’s commitments to human rights, tarnish its legal integrity and erode the dignity of individuals – a value upheld by all religions, including Islam.

SUHAKAM is steadfast in advocating for the abolishment of corporal punishments regardless whether imposed by judicial authorities or by educational authorities.

It is high time that Malaysia becomes a party to the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT), as many other Muslim-majority countries have already ratified or acceded to this convention.

We respectfully call upon the relevant authorities to reconsider the implementation of public caning; and instead to respect and uphold the Federal Constitution, federal laws and human rights. We must endeavour to abolish practices that violate human dignity and to focus instead on rehabilitative justice.

Judicial punishments must never be carried out at the cost of human dignity. Public caning, regardless of whichever authority that imposes it, constitutes cruel and degrading treatment and has no place in a society that values justice, compassion and the rule of law.

-TAMAT-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 19 December 2024

KUALA LUMPUR (10 DECEMBER 2024) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) marked Human Rights Day 2024 under the theme “Empowering Our Rights, Securing Our Future: Business Responsibility for People and Nation”. Co-organized with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department and the United Nations in Malaysia, the event highlighted the critical role of businesses in advancing human rights.

In his Welcome Address, SUHAKAM Chairman Dato’ Seri Mohd Hishamudin Md. Yunus stressed that human rights are fundamental obligations enshrined in the Federal Constitution and Malaysia’s international commitments. He called for the urgent adoption of a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAPBHR), emphasizing that ethical corporate practices are essential for sustainable economic growth and social justice.

SUHAKAM urged stronger measures to address forced labour, unsafe working conditions and environmental harm, advocating for greater accountability, labour protections and whistleblower empowerment. Emerging threats such as online hate speech and digital exploitation were also identified as urgent challenges requiring a rights-based approach.

The Chairman outlined five key priorities for strengthening Malaysia’s human rights framework:

1. Ratification or Accession of International Treaties: Malaysia must take definitive steps to accede to the Refugee Convention of 1951, as well as ratify or accede to the remaining key human rights treaties, including the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR);
2. Promoting Equality: Combat gender inequality, xenophobia and discrimination against marginalized communities;
3. Ensuring Access to Justice: Ensuring access to justice is fundamental to a rights-respecting society – this includes strengthening legal aid mechanisms and institutional accountability;
4. Enhancing Human Rights Education: Integrate human rights into schools, workplaces and communities – an informed society is better equipped to uphold its rights and respect the rights of others; and
5. Advancing Business and Human Rights: Align corporate practices with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

While noting progress made, Mohd Hishamudin emphasized the need for continued reforms to address inequalities and protect vulnerable groups such as children, persons with disabilities, refugees and the urban poor.

He called for collective action from the government, businesses and civil society, stating, “The realization of human rights is a shared responsibility. Together, we can build a Malaysia where human rights are not only protected but celebrated”.

Meanwhile, during the event, SUHAKAM Vice Chairman, YM Tengku Mohamed Fauzi Tengku Abdul Hamid, who was one of the panellist during the forum, touched on the transition to a green economy is vital for ASEAN, driving sustainable development while protecting the environment for future generations. By creating green jobs in renewable energy, waste management, sustainable agriculture and conservation, alongside investments in solar, wind, hydro and geothermal innovation, ASEAN can align economic growth with environmental stewardship. Electrification, biodegradable alternatives and reduced reliance on non-renewables are key steps forward.

“ASEAN must incentivize sustainable practices, penalize harmful activities and ensure corporate accountability. Establishing a Regional Environmental Court, as proposed at the ASEAN MPs Conference on 13 July in Kuala Lumpur, would strengthen governance and environmental justice. These bold steps position ASEAN as a global leader in sustainability, innovation and prosperity”.

-TAMAT-

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 10 December 2024