The Malaysian human rights commission Suhakam refers to the media coverage concerning its planned visit to Ba Data Bila, Ulu Baram, and wishes to provide the following clarification.
Suhakam wishes to highlight that the investigation being conducted in Ulu Baram is distinct and separate from the judicial review proceedings currently before the Miri High Court, as suggested in the news report citing the Sarawak Forestry Department published by Utusan Sarawak on 2 October.
The investigation in Ulu Baram was initiated following complaints received by Suhakam’s Sarawak office regarding alleged human rights violations. This is in line with Section 14(1) of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999, which empowers Suhakam to investigate complaints relating to human rights.
In this regard, Section 12(3) of the same act is not applicable in this case. The investigation aims to gather views from multiple stakeholders to ensure fairness and balance.
Regarding the postponement of Suhakam’s visit to Ba Data Bila, prior notice of the intended meeting and investigative visit was formally communicated to the village headman (ketua kaum) of Ba Data Bila through an official letter. Copies of this letter were also furnished to the Long Lama subdistrict office and the Telang Usan district office.
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Initially, the village headman of Ba Data Bila expressed no objection to Suhakam’s visit. However, before the scheduled date, he requested for the visit to be deferred until after the conclusion of the judicial review proceedings before the Miri High Court on 30 October.
Suhakam respected and acceded to this request.
In view of the above, Suhakam reiterates that its visit to Ulu Baram is solely related to complaints of human rights violations received by its Sarawak office and does not concern or interfere with the subject matter of any ongoing court proceedings.
Suhakam will continue to engage with relevant agencies to ensure that the issues raised are addressed comprehensively and effectively. – Suhakam
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