THE Malaysian Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) commemorates the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, observed annually on March 21.
This year’s theme is “Youth Standing Up Against Racism”, recognising the increasing role of youth in society and in charting the future of the nation.
The use of online technologies has grown exponentially following the Covid-19 pandemic and practice of new norms as the main mode of communication and dissemination of information among all levels of the community.
Unfortunately, social media has been misused by some quarters for public shaming and blaming, with verbal attacks, and racist and xenophobic statements targeting particular ethnicities and nationalities. The majority of social media users are youth, and without proper guidance, there is a risk of an exacerbation of racist and intolerant attitudes.
Suhakam urges the government to step up its efforts to implement policies and measures to counter hate speech and intolerance, and to provide open platforms for youth and various groups in society to discuss and address racial discrimination in Malaysia. This could be in the form of intercultural dialogues with a view to promoting mutual tolerance and respect for human dignity in a multi-ethnic and multicultural Malaysia.
Suhakam emphasises the importance of fostering a culture of tolerance, equality and non-discrimination among youth, where the potential lies to develop a just, peaceful and sustainable society in the future.
Suhakam reiterates its call to the government to accede to the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, as it will serve as a catalyst for more concerted effort to promote and protect human rights for all, regardless of race, colour, descent, nationality or ethnic origin. – The Vibes, March 21, 2021
The Malaysian Human Rights Commission is an independent organisation that investigates complaints on the violation of human rights
