KUALA LUMPUR: The government remains committed to upholding human rights in line with the Federal Constitution, the rule of law and the public interest, says Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.
The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) said this was because human rights are a core foundation of a peaceful, inclusive and prosperous society.
Azalina urged all ministries, agencies and stakeholders to give serious attention to the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia’s (Suhakam) 2024 Annual Report and Financial Statements (Statutory Paper 102 of 2026).
She said the report highlights workers’ rights, vulnerable groups, children, women, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, as well as related social and economic issues that require coordinated action.
“Doing so will strengthen cross-ministerial and cross-agency cooperation and ensure effective implementation of every recommendation, view and proposal contained in the report,” she told the Dewan Rakyat during the tabling of the report.
She revealed that Suhakam had received 1,074 complaints in 2024, with 41% resolved during the year itself, in addition to the enforcement of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Amendment) Act 2024.
Azalina also stressed that protecting rights requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, involving ministries, enforcement agencies, judiciary, civil society, private sector, educational institutions and media.
“Every party has an important role. The media helps raise public awareness and highlight issues responsibly, while civil society organisations serve as the government's strategic partners through advocacy, research and support for vulnerable groups.
“Meanwhile, the public must remain vigilant and use the appropriate channels to report any violations of human rights.
"Only through the cooperation of all parties can the agenda of promoting and protecting human rights continue to be strengthened for the well-being of the people and the nation," she said.
Azalina added that Suhakam's continued retention of its "A" Status accreditation under the Paris Principles reflects the international community's and government confidence in the commission.
"The government will continue to support Suhakam's ongoing efforts to strengthen public awareness, human rights education and engagement at both the national and international levels,” she added.
