In conjunction with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination observed on 21 March each year, the Malaysian human rights commission Suhakam stresses the importance of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination in advancing Malaysia’s development towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
As we commemorate the 60th anniversary of this UN convention, Suhakam reiterates its stance that racial discrimination, racism and xenophobia must be addressed comprehensively through legal, policy and societal efforts.
Article 1 of the convention defines racial discrimination as any distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference based on race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin which undermines the recognition and enjoyment of human rights on an equal footing.
This principle of equality is also enshrined in Article 8(1) of the Federal Constitution, which states that all persons are equal before the law and entitled to equal protection of the law.
Despite Malaysia’s progress in fostering unity and peace, racial discrimination and xenophobic sentiments persist, particularly in public discourse and social policies.
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Recall that the Covid pandemic had exacerbated discrimination against non-citizens, refugees and marginalised communities, highlighting the urgent need for systemic reforms.
Racism and xenophobia not only violate fundamental human rights but also impede Malaysia’s socioeconomic growth by fostering divisions and eroding social cohesion.
Suhakam acknowledges the government’s initiatives to promote national unity, including the national unity policy and action plan for 2021-2030.
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.
Malaysia’s commitment to upholding human rights and achieving sustainable development can be reinforced by aligning its policies with the core principles of the UN convention. By ensuring equal opportunities and fair treatment for all individuals, regardless of race, ethnicity or nationality, Malaysia can foster a more resilient, harmonious and prosperous society.
Suhakam fervently advocates for Malaysia to manifest its sincere commitment to the elimination of racial discrimination by imminently acceding to the UN convention, one of the core human rights treaties.
Today, 182 countries are already parties to this important convention, including Asean member states (except Myanmar, Brunei and Malaysia). Sadly, Malaysia is not yet a party.
Suhakam urges everyone in Malaysia to reject racism and discrimination in all forms and to embrace the values of equality, diversity and mutual respect.
It is imperative that we move beyond the surface of unity and work towards dismantling systemic racial discrimination, in line with international human rights standards. – Suhakam
AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
- Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
- Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
- Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
- Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
- Lawan rasuah dan kronisme
