Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s government has reversed its pledges of reform, expanding repressive laws to restrict freedoms in Malaysia, according to Human Rights Watch’s World Report 2025.
The report, released on 16 January 2025, highlights a significant regression in human rights practices during 2024.
In the report’s 35th edition, covering over 100 countries, Human Rights Watch criticises Malaysia for targeting free speech, restricting religious and assembly rights, and neglecting vulnerable groups.
“Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim promised Malaysians sweeping reforms, but his government has instead sought to restrict freedoms of expression, assembly, and religion,” said Bryony Lau, deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch.
The organisation’s findings come as Malaysia assumes the chair of ASEAN for 2025, a role that brings increased regional and international scrutiny. Lau urged Malaysia to advocate for human rights domestically and within the region.
Expanded censorship and restrictive laws
The report flags new proposals to increase the reach of existing laws such as the Sedition Act 1948 and the Communications and Media Act 1998. These laws, criticised for their vague definitions, have been used to criminalise speech critical of the government.
Further, the Cyber Security Act, enacted in August 2024, grants broad powers to monitor and police online expression. Critics argue the act represents a significant escalation in governmental control over digital spaces, undermining free speech.
Immigration detention abuses
Human Rights Watch condemns Malaysia’s handling of immigration detention, which violates international human rights standards. Over 16,000 refugees and migrants are held in detention centres, where they face conditions including physical abuse, malnutrition, and medical neglect.
The report calls for urgent reform of these detention practices, emphasising the need to protect the dignity and welfare of migrants and refugees in accordance with international norms.
Indigenous rights violations
The plight of Malaysia’s Indigenous communities, particularly in eastern regions, also draws criticism. Businesses operating in forests inhabited by Indigenous groups, especially in Sabah, have reportedly caused forced displacements and environmental degradation.
In Sabah, hundreds of Bajau Laut, a stateless, nomadic people, were forcibly evicted, underscoring a persistent disregard for Indigenous rights. Such actions further erode the cultural and social fabric of these communities.
Progress on gender equality marred by limitations
Despite setbacks in other areas, 2024 saw progress in gender equality. Constitutional amendments passed in October grant Malaysian women the same rights as men to confer citizenship to children born abroad. However, the legislation still includes provisions to revoke automatic citizenship for children born in Malaysia to permanent residents.
Urgent need for reforms
As Malaysia prepares to lead ASEAN, calls for human rights reforms are growing. Human Rights Watch urges the government to reverse restrictive policies and focus on measures that promote fundamental freedoms.
“Malaysia’s position as ASEAN chair brings an opportunity to champion human rights, but this will require significant changes to its current trajectory,” Lau stated.
The government has yet to respond to the report’s findings, but the international community will closely monitor its leadership in ASEAN as a litmus test for its commitment to human rights.
