Act within law, human rights principles when tackling hate speech and racism, says Suhakam

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) says authorities must distinguish between legitimate criticism and genuine incitement to violence or discrimination when addressing hate speech and racism.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) said efforts to address hate speech and racism in Malaysia must be grounded in human rights principles, including legality, necessity, proportionality, and accountability.

In a statement released today in conjunction with the remembrance of the tragic events of May 13, 1969, Suhakam said the lessons of history should guide the nation towards greater understanding and unity, rather than fear, division, or political manipulation.

The commission said any measures taken by authorities should clearly distinguish between legitimate criticism, public debate, and advocacy on one hand, and genuine incitement to violence or discrimination on the other.

Historical events, it said, must never be used to justify intolerance, silence legitimate discourse, or fuel racial animosity.

Suhakam also stressed that elected representatives and political leaders bear a heightened responsibility to set a positive example.

“Members of Parliament, as leaders entrusted with public confidence, should promote respectful engagement, reject racial or religious provocation, and refrain from making statements that may deepen mistrust and polarisation within society,” the statement read.

“Political differences must never come at the expense of national unity or human dignity.”

Last month, Pusat Komas, a non-governmental human rights organisation that combats racism and racial discrimination, has proposed the introduction of a code of ethics to promote non-discriminatory speech in Malaysia’s Parliament.

Pusat Komas, through its Malaysia Racism Report 2025, had earlier documented 107 racism-related incidents last year – the highest number of incidents in the past 11 years.

Parliament accounted for 43 cases, largely driven by racial majoritarianism narratives, xenophobic rhetoric, and religious fearmongering, highlighting the responsibility of elected representatives in shaping inclusive discourse.

Suhakam said public institutions, political parties, civil society organisations, media practitioners, educators, and community leaders all share a collective responsibility to foster an environment that encourages constructive dialogue, empathy, and understanding across communities.

“Suhakam also encourages the government to strengthen human rights education, intercultural dialogue initiatives, and public awareness programmes aimed at combating racism, xenophobia, and prejudice in all forms.

“Building an inclusive society requires long-term efforts to address misinformation, stereotypes, and hate-based narratives before they escalate into discrimination or violence.”

The commission added that national unity must be built on the recognition that every individual, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or background, is entitled to equal dignity, protection, and respect.