Kuala lumpur: The 2024 Annual Report of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) is expected to be tabled during the Dewan Rakyat's final sitting this year, marking a step toward ensuring timely submissions from 2026 onwards. Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) M. Kulasegaran stated that SUHAKAM is currently finalising the report, with improvements underway to streamline coordination and reporting processes.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, these enhancements include improving account closure and audit procedures in collaboration with the National Audit Department. Kulasegaran mentioned these steps while winding up the debate on SUHAKAM's 2023 annual report and financial statement. The reforms aim to ensure greater transparency and accountability. SUHAKAM is also working on developing a more data-driven impact assessment framework to replace its current feedback-based evaluation method.

Additionally, Kulasegaran confirmed that the appointment of a new Children's Commissioner has received royal assent, with an official announcement to follow soon. The role, appointed under Section 6(a) of the SUHAKAM Act 1999, will further strengthen the Commission's efforts to uphold children's rights.

The motion was passed by voice vote after debate by 38 MPs from both sides. Eleven other ministries, including Housing and Local Government, Finance, and Education, also responded during the session. The Dewan Rakyat will reconvene on Monday.