Refugees: Malaysia must choose humanity over vitriol


JUNE 20, 2026, was World Refugee Day. The Malaysian Bar stands in solidarity with refugees and we condemn the harmful rhetoric and dehumanising attacks against this vulnerable community. The principles of the rule of law and justice must extend to all human beings within our borders, regardless of status.

A powerful statement issued by the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (in Malay, Suruhanjaya Hak Asasi Manusia Malaysia, or Suhakam) on June 3, 2026 – which is echoed by the Malaysian Bar – said that “At a time when the world continues to witness grave atrocities against civilian populations, Suhakam reiterates that human suffering must not be measured selectively”.

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