Lawyer Kamek, Suhakam team up for children’s rights forum in Kuching

KUCHING (Sept 26): Lawyer Kamek successfully organised its inaugural collaboration with the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) Sarawak by hosting a children’s rights forum today.

The Sarawak-based non-profit organisation is dedicated to protecting and promoting universal human rights, particularly in the region.

It comprises a collective of volunteer lawyers and activists who uphold the principles of equality, justice, dignity, security, rights and freedom as the foundations of a democratic and just society.

Lawyer Kamek, in a statement, said: “This event marks the first collaboration between Suhakam – a statutory body – and a local NGO (non-governmental organisation) in Sarawak, demonstrating their joint commitment to tackling human rights issues.

“While the forum focuses on children’s rights, the partnership envisions addressing broader human rights issues in Malaysia in the future.

“Through this historic collaboration, Lawyer Kamek and Suhakam hope to spark meaningful changes in how society views and protects its youngest and most vulnerable members,” it added.

Held in conjunction with Suhakam’s 25th anniversary celebration, the forum with its title ‘Child Rights in Malaysia: How Did We Fare, Challenges and Way Forward’ aimed to highlight critical issues and foster meaningful dialogue on the protection and advancement of children’s rights in Malaysia, with a particular focus on Sarawak.

Recent reports of child rights violations across the country have raised alarm, including cases of child abuse, neglect and exposure to danger due to parental or guardian irresponsibility.

Particularly concerning is the plight of marginalised children, such as stateless children, who face barriers in accessing basic rights, including education, healthcare and social welfare services.

“Given these pressing concerns, Lawyer Kamek and Suhakam feel compelled to address these issues head-on.

“The forum served as a platform to raise public awareness about the violations of children’s rights and inspire action within society.

“It aimed not only to increase awareness among government and legal authorities, but also to encourage society at large to play a proactive role in safeguarding children,” it said.

Some 90 participants from various NGOs and government agencies, including hospitals, social services and local councils, took part in the forum.

Among those present were Lawyer Kamek director Simon Siah; Suhakam Children’s commissioner Dr Farah Nini Dusuki; paediatrician and head of Clinic Research Centre Dr Toh Teck Hock; and Sarawak Women for Women Society (SWWS) member Gill Raja.