PETALING JAYA: Despite Malaysia’s progress in fostering unity and peace, racial discrimination and xenophobic sentiments persist, says the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam).
The commission highlighted the urgent need for systematic reforms, recalling how the Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated discrimination against non-citizens, refugees and marginalised communities.
“We reiterate that these issues need to be addressed comprehensively through legal, policy and societal efforts by applying the principle of equality as enshrined in Article 8(1) of the Federal Constitution,” the commission said in a statement yesterday, marking the 60th anniversary of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (Icerd).
While Suhakam acknowledged the government’s initiatives to promote national unity, including the National Unity Policy and Action Plan 2021-2030, it added: “However, beyond policy development, effective implementation and enforcement mechanisms must be strengthened to ensure tangible progress.
“This includes enacting comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, strengthening human rights education and promoting greater public awareness to combat racial stereotypes and prejudices.”
Suhakam also advocates for Malaysia manifesting its sincere commitment to the elimination of racial discrimination by imminently acceding to Icerd, one of the core human rights treaties.
“It is imperative that we move beyond the surface of unity and work towards dismantling systematic racial discrimination, in line with international human rights standards,” it added.
