The Malaysian Insight

PUTRAJAYA must use the opportunity of being in the Human Rights Council to work with concerned citizens to strengthen human rights in the country, civil societies said.

The Coalition of Malaysian NGOs in the UPR (Universal Periodic Review) Process (Comango) reminded the government that the country’s backyard is where human rights matter most, even as it participates and contributes to the dialogue on human rights internationally.

“If the prime minister is serious about nurturing a Keluarga Malaysia (Malaysian Family), this is an opportune time for the government to pay attention to the critical voices of civil societies, as well as the public, who advocate for long-standing issues that have hindered Malaysia’s growth,” it said in a statement today.

The coalition of 42 organisations said that contestation still exists between different government ministries on how to approach the issue of human rights.

“The practice of shifting or passing responsibilities must come to an end,” it said.

Comango also pushed the government to adopt international standards in domestic laws and policies, and not just what is popular among the majority, but protecting the rights of the most vulnerable groups.

In addition, it requested the government to intensify efforts to promote a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment.

“This can be implemented through the plans mapped out in the 12th Malaysian Plan with regard to developing Malaysia holistically.

“A developed nation should not only be measured by the strength of its economy alone,” it said.

Two days ago, Malaysia secured a place in the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2022-2024 term after winning one of the 18 seats with 183 votes.

Since the news, many have expressed shock and stated that Malaysia’s current human rights practice is vastly disappointing.

Comango said Malaysian political leaders must now courageously speak out against negative and regressive voices against human rights in the country that hide and mask themselves in the name of race and religion.

“Silence is no longer an option if we are to stand tall in our role as a global leader in the United Nation on human rights,” it said. – October 17, 2021.