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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Dr Farah Nini Dusuki

Chief Children’s Commissioner

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

21 February 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

16 February 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

11 February 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (29 JANUARY 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the Concluding Remarks of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC) following Malaysia’s recent review under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. SUHAKAM notes the Committee’s recognition of Malaysia’s progress in several areas, while underscoring that persistent gaps continue to impede the full realisation of children’s rights and require urgent, coordinated and time-bound action.

SUHAKAM commends the Government for positive measures acknowledged by the CRC, including improvements in maternal and child health outcomes, expanded preventive interventions, and institutional efforts to strengthen child-related policies and services. SUHAKAM also notes the constructive engagement demonstrated by the Government during the review process, reflecting an openness to dialogue and reform. These developments represent important steps forward. However, as emphasised by the CRC, progress remains uneven and must be consolidated through structural and legislative reforms to ensure that no child is left behind.

In line with its long-standing positions and the Committee’s concluding remarks, SUHAKAM highlights six critical and priority actions requiring immediate attention:

• Withdrawal of Reservations

SUHAKAM reiterates its constant call for the withdrawal of Malaysia’s remaining reservations to the Convention. Their continued maintenance is no longer consistent with Malaysia’s legal and institutional maturity. SUHAKAM urges the Government to expedite and meaningfully conclude the review process initiated in 2017, in line with the Committee’s clear one-year timeframe.

• Harmonisation of Domestic Laws

SUHAKAM calls for the acceleration of law reform to ensure full harmonisation of domestic legislation with the Convention and its General Comments. This must be supported by a coordinated national mechanism with clear leadership, accountability and timelines, prioritising General Comment No. 24 and evidence-based policy development.

• Child Protection and the Child Justice System

SUHAKAM emphasises the need to strengthen child protection systems, including a robust and rights-based approach to alternative care, ensuring that institutionalisation is used strictly as a measure of last resort. SUHAKAM reiterates for the urgent need for a Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Institutional Care for Children to uncover the complexities of the different authorities managing the insitutions in order to eliminate the systemic issues confronting children in such care and to identify the root causes of the lack of monitoring and supervision of these institutions. The child justice system must be fully aligned with the Convention’s standards and supported by a transparent, professional and accountable child protection workforce.

• ⁠Refugee, Migrant and Undocumented Children

SUHAKAM reiterates its consistent position that refugee, migrant and undocumented children must not be excluded from protection frameworks. Concrete measures are required to include these children within national systems and to ensure access to essential services, including education and social protection. In this context, SUHAKAM highlights the need to progressively realise universal health coverage for all children, regardless of nationality or legal status, and to remove systemic barriers that result in deprivation. SUHAKAM further reiterates its call for the urgent implementation of non-custodial alternatives, the ending of immigration detention of children, and amendments to the Immigration Act to ensure compliance with the Convention’s standards.

• Fiscal Space and Child-Focused Budgeting

As Malaysia advances towards high-income status amid rapid demographic change, SUHAKAM stresses that adequate and sustainable investment in children remains a core human rights obligation. SUHAKAM calls for child-targeted and gender-responsive budgeting, systematic tracking of child-related expenditure, and analysis of investment adequacy against child outcomes to ensure that resource allocation translates into tangible improvements in children’s well-being.

• ⁠Reporting under the Optional Protocols and the CRPD

SUHAKAM urges the Government to expedite the submission of overdue reports under the Optional Protocols, including the Optional Protocol on the involvement of children in armed conflict (OPAC). This is essential to Malaysia’s commitment to international accountability and full compliance with its treaty obligations, and should be undertaken in a manner that reflects the cross-cutting and indivisible human rights principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, read together with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), thereby ensuring that gender equality and the rights of children with disabilities are fully and systematically addressed.

SUHAKAM further affirms that since the legal incorporation of the Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC) under SUHAKAM, the OCC has been funded solely through SUHAKAM’s existing budget, without any additional allocation from the Government. This institutional arrangement is important in safeguarding the independence of the OCC, as SUHAKAM is Malaysia’s National Human Rights Institution accredited with ‘A’ status under the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) and operating in accordance with the Paris Principles. SUHAKAM also acknowledges that the CRC has raised questions regarding the adequacy and sustainability of funding for the OCC. While the current arrangement reflects SUHAKAM’s commitment to strengthening oversight, monitoring, and advocacy for children’s rights, the existing level of funding is not adequate to support the expanded scope of responsibilities arising from the OCC’s statutory mandate. As SUHAKAM continues to expand its presence nationwide and children have become a key demographic requiring focused and sustained engagement, the effective discharge of the OCC’s functions necessitates commensurate and sustainable resourcing.

SUHAKAM recognises the progress achieved by the Government while emphasising that sustained political will and decisive action are required to fully implement the CRC’s recommendations. SUHAKAM remains committed to constructive engagement with the Government, Parliament and all stakeholders to ensure that children’s rights are fully respected, protected and fulfilled in Malaysia.                           

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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
29 January 2026

KUALA LUMPUR (23 JANUARY 2026) – The Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC), Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the introduction of the National Education Plan (RPM) 2026–2035 as a strategic continuation of the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013–2025. In general, OCC views the RPM as a positive and progressive step towards improving the quality of education, addressing systemic inequities, and prioritising the well-being of children.

OCC acknowledges the direction of the RPM, which no longer focuses solely on access, but instead, places emphasis on the quality of education, equity and student well-being. This approach is important because truly meaningful education is not merely about ensuring that children attend school, but about ensuring that they learn effectively in a safe, supportive environment that enables their development.

OCC also welcomes the emphasis on the concept of “Insan Sejahtera”, which encompasses academic achievement alongside character development, emotional, social and spiritual well-being. This approach is consistent with a holistic child rights framework and reflects an understanding that educational success should not be measured solely through examination outcomes.

OCC commends the Ministry of Education Malaysia’s (MOE) commitment towards inclusive education, particularly efforts to strengthen support for Students with Special Educational Needs, students in rural and remote areas, Orang Asli children, and those from low socio-economic backgrounds. The principle of ensuring that no child is left behind is clearly articulated within the policy framework.

OCC further commends MOE’s openness in acknowledging existing challenges, including Malaysia’s performance in international assessments such as PISA and TIMSS, urban–rural disparities, and upper secondary school dropout rates. Such transparency is an important foundation for evidence-based and effective policy reform.

However, OCC stresses that the true success of the RPM 2026–2035 will ultimately depend on its consistent and effective implementation, particularly in ensuring the protection and fulfilment of children’s right to education. While the Blueprint presents a strong vision and policy framework, clearer mechanisms are required to safeguard educational rights. OCC reiterates that children are not merely beneficiaries of policy, but they are the rights holders, in line with Malaysia’s obligation under the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). Therefore, clearer explanations are needed on how students’ right to education will be protected, monitored, and enforced when targets are not met at the school or district level.

OCC further emphasises that upper secondary school dropout should be addressed as a child rights concern rather than solely as an enrolment issue. Each instance of dropout reflects a systemic failure to adequately protect a child’s right to education. OCC urges for a more targeted and rights-sensitive interventions to be developed for children at higher risk, including those living in poverty, children in remote areas, children engaged in labour, those at risk of early marriage, and children without documentation or with unclear legal status.

With regard to inclusive education, OCC notes that gaps remain in infrastructure and physical accessibility, particularly for children with disabilities. Where schools are not disability-friendly, children may be indirectly excluded from accessing education on an equal basis. OCC calls on the MOE to set clear, measurable timelines to upgrade schools to be accessible for children with disabilities, alongside more comprehensive and sustained training for educators in inclusive education.

OCC is also of the view that children’s voices remain insufficiently represented within education governance structures. Meaningful, safe and continuous mechanisms for children to express their views, experiences and concerns are essential to ensure that education policies are responsive to realities on the ground and truly child-centred.

At the same time, OCC underscores that the well-being of teachers and school counsellors is integral to the realisation of students’ right to education. Excessive non-pedagogical workload, high counsellor-to-student ratios and work-related stress can adversely affect the quality of support provided to students. Investment in the welfare of educators is therefore an investment in the present and future of children.

In conclusion, OCC welcomes the RPM 2026–2035 as an important step towards a more inclusive, equitable and future-oriented education system. Nevertheless, strong policy commitments must be accompanied by implementation that is firmly grounded in child rights principles. The ultimate measure of success of the RPM lies not in policy documents or numerical targets, but in its ability to ensure that no child is left behind, marginalised or denied their right to education, particularly those most at risk.

OCC stands ready to engage constructively with the MOE and all relevant stakeholders to ensure that the implementation of the RPM 2026–2035 delivers meaningful and lasting improvements to the lives and future of all children in Malaysia.

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Dr Farah Nini Dusuki

Chief Children’s Commissioner

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

23 January 2026.

KUALA LUMPUR (10 JANUARY 2026) – The Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) welcomes the announcement by the Home Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, that children born overseas to Malaysian mothers will automatically obtain Malaysian citizenship by June or July 2026.

This announcement follows the passage of the Federal Constitution (Amendment) Bill on citizenship provisions in October 2024 and marks a significant step forward in addressing long-standing inequalities affecting children’s right to nationality.

While welcoming this development, it is disheartening that the amendment is non-retrospective. In view of this, children born before the implementation date must continue to be accorded Malaysian citizenship through registration under Article 15(2) of the Federal Constitution. No child should be disadvantaged due to delays in the law’s implementation.

The OCC also notes with appreciation the substantial reduction in the backlog of citizenship applications, from approximately 50,000 cases to fewer than 4,000 since the start of the Home Minister’s term in 2022, including cases raised by the OCC. This reflects meaningful progress in administrative reform.

The OCC further notes that the amended Citizenship Regulations 1964 are expected to be rolled out in tandem with the implementation of the constitutional amendment. In this regard, the OCC urges that the amended Regulations be made publicly accessible, procedures simplified, and clear SOPs established to ensure applicants have access to track the progress of their applications and receive written reasons for any rejection.

To ensure effective implementation, the OCC calls for a clear public communication strategy, including nationwide outreach, as well as comprehensive training for front-line officers, particularly at Malaysian embassies and diplomatic missions abroad.

The OCC remains committed to working with the Government to ensure that no child is left without nationality, in accordance with the Federal Constitution and Malaysia’s international human rights obligations.

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Dr Farah Nini Dusuki

Chief Children’s Commissioner

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)

10 January 2026.