Posts in category: Press Statement

KUALA LUMPUR (13 JUNE 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) views with grave concern the recent incident involving the imposition of a travel ban on activist Fahmi Reza. The imposition was without prior notice, legal basis or adequate justification. Such action constitutes a violation of his constitutional right to freedom of movement as enshrined in Article 9 of the Federal Constitution and raises serious questions about compliance with due process and the principles of natural justice. The absence of clear legal procedures and transparency in the enforcement of travel restrictions represents a significant encroachment upon civil liberties and sets a troubling precedent for arbitrary state action. 

Although both the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and the Director-General of Immigration have since clarified that there was no official international travel restriction imposed on Fahmi Reza, the fact that he was barred from leaving the country highlights serious flaws in the communication mechanism between these two enforcement agencies. It is unsettling that until today neither of these Departments has publicly apologised to Fahmi Reza. 

This incident reflects the pressing need for improved coordination among enforcement agencies, particularly between the police and immigration departments. The lack in clarity of communication between these agencies often results in miscommunication, confusion and injustice. SUHAKAM recommends the establishment of a clear, streamlined information-sharing protocol to enable timely and transparent decisions that uphold the constitutional and legal rights of individuals. The law must never be arbitrary or oppressive in nature.

However, a more important concern is that the imposition of travel bans without due process contravenes the right to freedom of movement, a human and fundamental right firmly protected under both our Federal Constitution and international law. 

Bearing in mind Fahmi Reza’s activities as a cartoonist and satirist, this brings us to another crucial issue. Article 10 guarantees the right to freedom of speech and expression. As a cartoonist and satirist, Fahmi Reza has been a human rights activist exercising his political views through artistic expressions as well as through satirical form of expressions. Such activities are protected by the Constitution and must be respected in a democratic society that upholds the Rule of Law. 

Article 13(2) of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights affirms that “Everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own and to return to his country”. Travel restrictions must therefore be imposed proportionately within a constitutional and legal framework and individuals subjected to such bans must be promptly informed, given the opportunity to challenge the decision and provided access to an independent review mechanism.  Travel restrictions that are seemingly linked to his political expressions may therefore constitute an unlawful limitation of his constitutional and human rights.

Fahmi Reza’s unfortunate incident must serve as a critical reminder of the importance of respecting and safeguarding fundamental liberties through clear procedures, accountable governance, and a steadfast commitment to human dignity. Such incident is not in consonance with good governance.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 13 June 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (4 JUNE 2025) – On 13th May 2025, the family of the late J. Soosaimanicckam submitted a memorandum to the Attorney General Chambers (AGC), urging the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to investigate into the death of the late J. Soosaimanicckam. The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses deep concern over the prolonged delay in the pursuit of justice for the late naval cadet J. Soosaimanicckam, who tragically lost his life during a training session in 2017.  In July 2024, the Ipoh High Court classified his death as homicide. The High Court had ruled that the death was a result of navy officers denying him medical treatment for leptospirosis. In the light of the High Court ruling, it is imperative that the PDRM expedites its investigation and ensures those responsible are held accountable under the law.

19th May 2025 commemorates seven years since the passing of the late J. Soosaimanicckam. The fact that seven years have passed without resolution is a serious indictment of the justice system’s ability to protect the rights of victims and their families against criminal wrongdoings. Justice delayed is denied justice. In this case, prolonged inaction undermines public trust in state institutions, particularly, law enforcement agencies.

As mandated by its role, SUHAKAM had been holding watching briefs in this case, and has been actively monitoring the case since 2018. Whilst we recognize the complexity of cases involving state actors, SUHAKAM stresses that no institution should be immune from scrutiny when there is credible evidence of rights violations.

This case is not only a matter of justice for one family but a testament to the broader principles enshrined in the Federal Constitution. Article 5(1) guarantees that “No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty save in accordance with law”. The tragic and preventable death of J. Soosaimanicckam, coupled with institutional inaction, amounts to a failure to uphold this fundamental right.

The case also implicates international human rights standards, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Article 3 of the UDHR guarantees the right to life, liberty and security of person. Article 8 of the same ensures that everyone has the right to an effective remedy by competent national tribunals for acts violating fundamental rights granted by the constitution or by law. The prolonged delay in investigation contravenes these human rights principles.

SUHAKAM urges the PDRM and the AGC to act with urgency, impartiality, and transparency. The family of the late J. Soosaimanicckam deserves justice and closure, and the public deserves assurance that all deaths in custody or under state supervision are properly investigated and those responsible are held accountable.

SUHAKAM further calls for a clear timeline for the investigation and prosecution processes. There must be regular updates to be communicated to the family, and independent oversight to ensure the integrity of the investigation. SUHAKAM remains committed to upholding justice, transparency, and human rights and will continue to monitor the developments of this case closely.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 4 June 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (23 MAY 2025) – Pursuant to its powers under the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 (Act 597), the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) will be conducting a public inquiry into the alleged human rights violations in connection with the incident of 17 January 2025 at Taiping Prison, Perak, which led to the death of an inmate who was in custody.

The inquiry will verify, among others, whether there were any human rights violations in connection with the incident, and, if so, –

(i)         to identify the nature and extent of such violations.

(ii)        to examine how and why such violations occurred.

(iii)       to determine the parties responsible for the violations; and

(iv)       to make recommendations to prevent the recurrence of similar incidents.

The Inquiry Panel will comprise the following members:

(i)         Dato’ Seri Hishamudin Yunus – Chairman of SUHAKAM, as Chairperson of the Panel.

(ii)        Datuk Mariati Robert – SUHAKAM Commissioner; and

(iii)       Dr Farah Nini Dusuki – SUHAKAM Commissioner

The public hearings will be held at the Pusat Koreksional Kamunting (KEMTA), Kamunting, Perak, and are scheduled to proceed in two phases: from 9 to 12 June 2025 and from 23 to 26 June 2025. If the need arises, additional subsequent dates will be announced at a later stage.

Members of the public and media who wish to attend the proceedings are welcome but are required to pre-register at the following QR Code:

For media inquiries, please contact Ms. Norashikin Hamzah, Media and Promotion Division at shikin@suhakam.org.my or 019-6215336 or Mr. Safrizaman Mohammad at safrizaman@suhakam.org.my.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 23 MAY 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (10 MARCH 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses its regret over the tragic incident involving a blind man who was killed by a moving train after falling onto the tracks at the Titiwangsa LRT station. As a State Party to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) since 2010, Malaysia has an obligation to ensure that public transport is both accessible and safe for persons with disabilities (PWDs). While Prasarana has made commendable efforts in improving accessibility, equal emphasis on safety measures is crucial to protecting commuters with disabilities.

In this regard, SUHAKAM calls for strategic advocacy to uphold accessibility for PWDs as a fundamental right, as outlined in Section 27 of the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 [Act 685] and Article 9 of the CRPD. According to Section 27 of Act 685, it is reasonable to expect that Prasarana ensures public transport is not only accessible and usable for PWDs but also equipped with preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.

SUHAKAM marks one year since the launch of its public transport awareness program. On February 23, 2024, in collaboration with Persatuan Orang-orang Cacat Penglihatan Islam Malaysia (PERTIS) and observers from Majlis Kebangsaan Bagi Orang Kurang Upaya (MKBOKU) and the National Council for the Blind, Malaysia, SUHAKAM organized “A Day as a VIP (Visually Impaired Persons): From Act to Implementation.” During the program, participants, blindfolded, traveled via Monorail from Medan Tuanku to Titiwangsa MRT to experience the challenges faced by PWDs. SUHAKAM identified Titiwangsa Station as a key transit hub requiring urgent security and accessibility improvements.

SUHAKAM acknowledges Prasarana’s plan to install Platform Automatic Doors at all LRT stations. We urge for the swift implementation of this initiative, as it will significantly enhance commuter safety by providing a barrier between the station platform and the tracks, thereby preventing unauthorized access and minimizing service disruptions.

While safety upgrades may incur costs, they are essential long-term investments in preventing incidents and ensuring safer commutes. SUHAKAM urges Prasarana to set clear timelines and allocate adequate resources to remove barriers for PWDs. We welcome the Government’s review of train station safety but emphasize the need for a comprehensive, long-term plan to ensure lasting accessibility and security improvements.

In line with this, SUHAKAM is prepared to collaborate with MKBOKU, Prasarana, and NGOs related to PWDs to enhance conditions within the public transportation system. We look forward to constructive engagements with all stakeholders to ensure that public transport is both accessible and safe for everyone.

SUHAKAM also calls on the Government to amend Act 685 to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and protections for PWDs. Achieving meaningful change requires collective action. While authorities must ensure safe transport, the public can also contribute by staying vigilant and empathetic.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

Date: 10 March 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (25 FEBRUARY 2022)   –   The Children’s Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) (CC), is appalled by the shocking videos circulating online showing a girl being molested by a 19 year old youth. These videos have gone viral on social media and messaging platforms such as WhatsApp.

What shocked the CC the most was one video where the girl was interviewed by a man allegedly after the incident. In the video, the girl’s face was visible and she appeared terrified.

Section 15(2) of the Child Act 2001 [Act 611] explicitly prohibits the reporting or publishing of images of children under protection at any stage of their case. Violating this provision is a criminal offence, punishable under Section 15(4) of Act 611 by a fine of up to RM10,000, imprisonment of up to five years or both.

Additionally, this act also violates Article 16 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child 1989 (CRC) which guarantees a child’s right to privacy. As a State Party to the CRC since 1995, Malaysia must uphold its commitments to the Convention.

Therefore, the CC urges the following actions:

1. The Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) must act against those who exposed and disseminated the videos under Act 611.
2. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) must immediately direct the persons responsible to remove these videos from online platforms, as per their mandate under Section 51 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588).
3. The public must stop sharing the videos, as doing so further victimizes the girl.

Some argue that sharing the video serves as a warning to parents and guardians to prevent similar incidents. However, this justification is weak, a verbal reminder is sufficient and sharing the video only causes further harm to the girl. If the video continues to spread, she may experience trauma and distress, especially if her case becomes widely discussed in her school and community.

The girl has the right to privacy and dignity as guaranteed by Article 5 of the Federal Constitution. The Social Welfare Department must provide her with counselling and support so she can regain a sense of normalcy. The best interests of the child must always be the top priority, as emphasized in Article 3 of the CRC. Everyone must consider the girl’s well-being first and foremost.

The CC commends the RMP for their swift action in apprehending the perpetrator. The CC is also grateful to the mosque involved, whose functional CCTV system played a crucial role in securing evidence for the case.

With Ramadan just a week away, many families will bring their children to mosques and surau for Tarawih prayers. However, parents and guardians must remain vigilant. A place of worship does not guarantee absolute safety, and children must always be closely supervised.

Additionally, under Section 19 of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, any individual who is aware of a child being sexually abused is legally obligated to report it to the police. Failure to do so is a criminal offence, punishable by a fine of up to RM5,000 upon conviction.  Ensuring the safety and well-being of children is a shared responsibility. Let us work together to protect them.

-TAMAT-

Dr Farah Nini Dusuki
Children’s Commissioner 
The Human Rights Commmission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 25 February 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (19 FEBRUARY 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) calls upon the Malaysian Government to intensify its diplomatic efforts in appealing to the Singaporean Government to halt the execution and seek clemency on behalf of Pannir Selvam s/o Pranthaman.

Pannir Selvam, a mere courier, has been sentenced to death under a mandatory penalty that disregards the mitigating circumstances of his case. This sentence is a stark deviation from international human rights standards, and we are deeply concerned about the irreversible consequences of capital punishment, especially in instances where mercy and leniency should be considered.

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 wishes to emphasize that the Human Rights Committee, which interprets the Covenant, has consistently ruled that drug-related offences do not meet this standard.

The planned execution of Pannir Selvam also 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.

SUHAKAM stands in support of the statement by UN experts, urging Singaporean authorities to halt the execution of Pannir Selvam and commute his death sentence to imprisonment in line with international human rights law and standards. SUHAKAM stands firm in advocating for justice, compassion, and the inherent rights of all individuals, regardless of nationality or circumstance and therefore, we urge all involved to choose mercy and humanity over irreversible punishment.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 19 February 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (19 FEBRUARY 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses serious concern over actions by the authorities that appear to be attempts to silence human rights activists and intimidate the families of detainees who recently held an Anti SOSMA rally outside of Sungai Buloh Prison.

SUHAKAM reminds the authorities that the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are fundamental human rights enshrined in the Federal Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.  Any action that restricts or disrupts these rights is contrary to the Federal Constitution law and human rights principles.

These concerns arise due to reports of the temporary detention of Suara Rakyat Malaysia (SUARAM) Executive Director, Sevan Doraisamy, by the police over allegation of trespassing into a restricted area at the Ministry of Home Affairs. Although the police have clarified that he was only called in to give a statement and was not arrested, SUHAKAM, nonetheless, stresses that such action may be seen as intimidation against an activist advocating for human rights.

SUHAKAM defends the rights of the families of the SOSMA detainees to gather peacefully in protest outside Sungai Buloh Prison in solidarity with their loved ones detained under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA). We demand that the authorities respect these rights to voice concerns and ensure that no intimidation or harassment occurs.

SUHAKAM commends the government on the recent announcement by the Prime Minister during the Dewan Rakyat seating on 13 February 2025 to amend the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 seeking to better facilitate the citizens when exercising their right to assemble in peace. This is a move towards a positive direction.

SUHAKAM once again emphasized that any effort to silence activists and prevent freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly is a violation of the Federal Constitution as well as international standards. The authorities must respect these fundamental and human rights.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 19 February 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (17 FEBRUARY 2025) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the Government’s ongoing efforts to improve the management of refugees, by reviewing the National Security Council (NSC) Directive No.23. In her written answer during the first meeting of the fourth session of the Fifteenth Parliament, YB Dr. Zaliha Mustafa stated that in the improved Directive No. 23, refugees will be allowed to work. This development is a significant step forward in addressing the long-standing challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers in the country. SUHAKAM calls for the urgent implementation of NSC Directive No. 23.

Whilst SUHAKAM acknowledges the implementation of the NSC Directive No. 23 as an interim measure, we remain concerned about the effectiveness of these initiatives as a long-term solution. The NSC Directive No. 23 is a too late and too little approach.  What about the right of refugees to access medical facilities and the right of refugees’ children to attend Government school for education? Short-term policies, while providing immediate relief – albeit limited in nature – must be followed by a comprehensive legal framework to ensure sustainable and rights-based solution for refugees.

NSC Directive No. 23 has been approved by the YAB Prime Minister since 14 Jun 2023. However, inexplicably it remains a confidential document to the public. SUHAKAM takes the position that a policy of public interest and importance should never be a state secret.  We are perplexed by this secrecy. What is the rationale? Good governance and the principle of transparency dictate that the Government must be transparent in this matter. The policy must be made public so that members of the public, including refugees are aware of their rights.

Be that as it may, SUHAKAM looks forward to a more significant long-term solution rather than an ad-hoc approach. Without a comprehensive legal approach, the status of refugees in this country will forever remain precarious and ‘illegal’.

There are only about 200 000 asylum seekers and refugees in this country; who, unfortunately, live in dire conditions and at the mercy of the enforcement agencies, as their status remains as ‘illegal immigrant’ even if they were to hold an UNHCR card.

SUHAKAM strongly demands that the Government prioritises the enactment of a Refugee and Asylum Act and for Malaysia’s accession to the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol. These measures will be the appropriate and long-term solution. These long-overdue measures will enable the Government, through the establishment of a proper mechanism, to independently evaluate who are genuine refugees and asylum seekers and who are not. Such measures will legalise the stay of genuine refugees and asylum seekers in this country; will enable them to seek employment so as to be financially independent and to live with dignity. Genuine refugees and asylum seekers will have access to medical facilities and to education at Government schools. These measures will provide legal clarity, protection and stability for refugees and asylum seekers while also benefiting Malaysia through structured workforce integration and international recognition of the commitment to human rights.

It is a shame that whilst 149 nations have already ratified or acceded to the 1951 Refugee Convention, yet Malaysia remains one of the few countries who are not parties to the Convention. Even within ASEAN member states, Cambodia and Philippines are already parties to the Refugee Convention.

SUHAKAM notes that the Government has established a committee under NSC Directive No. 23 to oversee the welfare of refugees in Malaysia. As a National Human Rights Institution tasked with the promotion and protection of human rights including the rights of refugees, SUHAKAM expresses its interest in participating in this committee. SUHAKAM is prepared to engage in constructive dialogue with all relevant parties to ensure that Malaysia moves toward a permanent, structured and rights-based framework for refugee protection and integration.

-TAMAT-

Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
Date: 17 February 2025