Malaysia will continue improving human rights situation at national and international level - FM Zambry

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will pursue undertaking constructive and pragmatic approach to improve the human rights situation at home, while working closely and constructively with all partners to realise its membership priorities in the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council.

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir said Malaysia will also undertake a human rights-based approach, in accordance with its national laws, international human rights obligations and Sustainable Development Goals.

Zambry said this in his opening remarks during the Human Rights Day Forum 2022, held here today. His message was relayed through video recording as Zambry is getting ready to attend the European Union-ASEAN Commemorative Summit in Brussels.

"These are indeed the very aspiration of the 2030 Agenda in which nations world over, including Malaysia, have committed to 'Leave No One Behind'.

"This is also at the heart of Malaysia's membership in the Human Rights Council for the 2022-2024 term," he said.

Co-organised by the Legal Affairs Division at the Prime Minister's Department, Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) and the UN in Malaysia, the forum is held in conjunction with Human Rights Day observed on Dec 10.

Zambry further added at the national level, the government is currently looking at resolving the amendments to the Persons with Disabilities Act 20 to further advance the rights of vulnerable groups.

"We will also pursue robust policies to achieve gender equality and promote the rights of women and girls. All Government Ministries and agencies in Malaysia recently appointed a Gender Focal Point at the top management level to ensure the implementation of initiatives for gender equality.

"Young people in the country will be empowered and better equipped with the necessary skills and expertise to face the competitive world of work.

"We will continue to work hard to address climate change and uphold environmental rights. We are duty bound to do so for our future generations," said Zambry.

He noted that on the international front, Malaysia will sustain and strengthen its global advocacy and efforts to address the plight of the Palestinians and Rohingyas.

Meanwhile, a video messages by the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' emphasising on the significance of human rights were also highlighted during the forum.

"I urge Member States, civil society, the private sector and others to put human rights at the heart of efforts to reverse today's damaging trends," he said.

"On this Human Rights Day, we reaffirm the universality and indivisibility of all rights, as we stand up for human rights for all," said Guterres.

Themed "Strengthening and Enhancing Human Rights Towards Leaving No One Behind", the half a day forum was graced Yang Di-Pertuan Besar Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Munawir.

The forum was also conducted in hybrid form and streamed online.

-- BERNAMA