Human rights for all people

Civic duty: Temuan Orang Asli waiting to be vaccinated at a mobile vaccination centre at Kampung Pulau Kempas, Jenjarom, Selangor, last month. — Bernama

THE International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is commemorated on Aug 9 to raise awareness of the needs of these population groups, and to strengthen international cooperation in solving problems faced by indigenous peoples such as their rights, the environment, development, education, health and economic and social development. The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) supports this year’s theme, “Leaving no one behind: Indigenous peoples and the call for a new social contract”, to demand for their inclusion, participation and approval in the constitution of a system with social and economic benefits for all.

Oftentimes, indigenous peoples are excluded from social contracts, which are unwritten agreements or practices to cooperate for social and economic benefits. These are usually made by the majority or main influencers, thereby amplifying the indigenous peoples’ vulnerability. A number of countries have sought to redress these disparities through public apologies, truth and reconciliation efforts and legislative reforms, as well as constitutional reforms.