‘In Malaysia, we have undergone decades of human rights activism.  What we see taking shape globally provides much cause for concern.  Locally, we see incremental instances of freedom erosion in tandem with international developments.  Fortunately, the leaders of our independence signed us the Federal Constitution as a protective measure to meet new threats to our liberties.  With this in mind, efforts to expand civil space to allow for dissenting and minority views, and to ensure that our laws and policies protect everyone without discrimination must continue.  We need to defend our Constitution, and use it constructively to uphold our rights. (…)

I am glad that SUARAM has remained steadfast in the human rights struggle.  The Report is also evidence of SUARAM’s tenacity and dedication in making Malaysia a better place for all of us. SUARAM’s Report has demonstrated what Malaysia has achieved, but also serves to remind us how much more we have to do ahead.  It must be read.‘, writes Edmund Bon Tai Soon, Representative of Malaysia to the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) in the foreword of SUARAM‘s Malaysia Human Rights Report 2016.

To download the full report, please click here.