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10 July 2024
UN Country Results Report Malaysia 2023: Supporting Malaysia’s Path to Sustainability and Inclusion in Turbulent Times
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Press Release
21 June 2024
#WorldRefugeeDay: UNICEF’s statement on access to education for refugee and stateless children
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Press Release
21 June 2024
Milestone World Refugee Day marker with first ever commemorative Khutbah sermon in mosques
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Darussalam
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Malaysia:
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10 July 2024
Summit of the Future
The Summit is a high-level event, bringing world leaders together to forge a new international consensus on how we deliver a better present and safeguard the future.
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Publication
04 July 2024
UN Country Results Report Malaysia 2023: Supporting Malaysia’s Path to Sustainability and Inclusion in Turbulent Times
The 2023 Country Results Report provides a spotlight on the key results of the UN system’s programming and advocacy in 2023. Working under the umbrella of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2021-2025 (CF) and drawing on information available on our website via the UN INFO platform, this report reflects the dynamism of 2023. In line with the UN development system reforms, the UNCT continues to deliver tangible results, under the leadership and coordination of the Resident Coordinator.The UNCT, in collaboration with its diverse partners, works towards fostering an equitable and inclusive economy guided by a human rights approach to development. Programmes include enhancing the skills of women entrepreneurs, combating forced and child labour in the palm oil industry, expanding social protection, and ensuring youth access to technical and vocational education and training (TVET). Furthermore, the UN remains dedicated to assisting the Government in safeguarding Malaysia's abundant biodiversity, protecting the environment and combating climate change. The UN remains resolute in fulfilling its commitments to the Government and civil society by actively exploring new opportunities to accelerate SDG progress through systems and institutional strengthening.
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20 June 2024
#WorldRefugeeDay: Local Municipal Council leads the way in finding solutions for harmonious living of residents – Malaysians and refugees alike
Read the original story hereIt was the morning of Eid Al-Adha. Since the early hours, a neighbourhood field in the district of Ampang Jaya an hour outside Kuala Lumpur became the gathering point for communities of Muslim refugees and migrants.Myanmar refugee Rashidah and her seven children were among them. Her family had gathered on the field with others from the neighbourhood to observe Eid Al-Adha with a ritual sacrifice of livestock, or qurban.Eid Al-Adha is a revered observance among Muslims, coinciding with the final rites of the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. Devout Muslims slaughter livestock and share two-thirds of the meat with the poor.“We can’t travel to perform the holy pilgrimage to Mekah, so this is a way to practice our faith,” Rashidah said.Rashidah has lived as a refugee in Malaysia for 37 years, after her family fled persecution in Myanmar. A single mother raising young children alone, Rashidah earned a wage for years working as a cleaner. Now, her grown sons also work to augment the family income.“We all pooled our money to buy a cow for qurban this year,” said Rashidah. “All the meat will be distributed to the mosque and to the poor – Malaysians and non-Malaysians. We’re not keeping any meat. We will give to all who need it.”There are currently approximately 189,000 refugees and asylum-seekers in Malaysia, some of whom are Muslim. Many, like Rashidah, practice Eid Al-Adha with the ritual sacrifice of livestock animals.“We contacted the Municipal Council of Ampang Jaya - the local authority responsible for the cleanliness and well-being of residents in the area – to seek a discussion on helping refugees comply with standardised procedures when conducting qurban,” said Adli Zakuan Zairakithnaini, UNHCR head of humanitarian affairs.“Refugees have no legal status in the country. Living in the fringes of society, especially in a foreign land, it is understandable how some refugee communities may lack full understanding of domestic regulations, procedures, and practices, and the impact of their behaviour to local communities.“Our priority is to ensure these gaps in knowledge are addressed to reduce any friction between refugees and host communities that may arise from misunderstandings. Our interest is that refugees conduct practices like qurban within the parameters of local regulations and procedures.”Dr Ani Ahmad, Chairman of the Municipal Council of Ampang Jaya, explained the Municipal Council’s intentions to better regulate qurban conducted by foreigners in the area.“It is sometimes difficult for foreigners to conduct qurban at mosques or designated slaughter centres. Often, they resort to performing the qurban ritual at inappropriate locations like vacant lots, in housing areas, or industrial areas. This is often disruptive, unhygienic, and insensitive to the sentiments of local populations,” said Dr Ani.UNHCR, together with Government departments involved in managing the qurban ritual as well as representatives from local mosques, were invited by the Municipal Council for a series of discussions on how qurban was conducted by foreigners, including refugees, and how to better manage it collectively.“The Municipal Council designated four locations where foreigners could conduct qurban in the district,” said Dr Ani. “We agreed to provide amenities such as tents, clean water, waste disposal bins, cleaners, and traffic control.” Ahead of Eid Al-Adha, UNHCR rapidly produced simple and clear guidance for refugee communities on local norms and practices, as well as regulations and agreed procedures around conducting livestock sacrifice, including safety and hygiene practices, as well as consequences and penalties for non-compliance.These were then mass distributed through a variety of channels used for communicating with refugees, including through digital instant messaging platforms and UNHCR’s Refugee-Malaysia.org information portal. UNHCR also engaged refugee community representatives on the ground to disseminate the information and help answer questions.On the morning of Eid Al-Adha, a UNHCR team was on the ground to monitor the implementation of this new procedure. Officers from the Municipal Council, including Dr Ani, were also present.“Refugee community focal points had informed the Municipal Council in advance how many families would be conducting qurban in each location and how many cows would be sacrificed,” said Adli. “With structures and plans in place, we saw a smooth implementation of the qurban ritual in the four designated locations.“UNHCR is deeply appreciative to the Municipal Council of Ampang Jaya for its exemplary leadership in identifying and implementing a solution that benefits the well-being of all residents – refugees, migrants, and Malaysians alike.”Dr Ani said that managing the qurban rituals this way reduced complaints from local residents, especially around issues of the disruption to neighbourhoods, cleanliness and hygiene of slaughter locations, and traffic congestion while activities were underway.“This kind of cooperation helps the Municipal Council more effectively carry out our responsibilities. It creates a harmonious environment with the local population and ensures every segment of society has access to better living conditions,” said Dr Ani. “We hope to see more of such cooperation in the future in line with the aspirations of the Sustainable Development Goals.”
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13 June 2024
UN in Malaysia partners with Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Summit of the Future briefings
In the lead up to of the Summit of the Future (SOTF), the UN in Malaysia, in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia, organized two briefing sessions for government and civil society representatives on 30 May 2024. The Summit of the Future will be convened during the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, bringing world leaders together on 22-23 September to forge a new international consensus to safeguard the future and turbocharge the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).The first consultation involved government representatives from 15 Ministries and 5 Agencies. The second session gathered over 20 CSOs, NGOs and academia. These briefings aimed to offer an in-depth overview of the SOTF and unpack its outcome – the draft Pact for the Future plus its two annexes: the Declaration on Future Generations and the Global Digital Compact.The briefings were led by Ms. Karima El Korri, the United Nations Resident Coordinator (UNRC) and Mr. Adlan Mohd Shaffieq, Undersecretary, Multilateral Political Division from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Malaysia (MoFA). When addressing both Government and CSO representatives, Mr. Adlan Mohd Shaffieq acknowledged the UN Secretary General’s call for action and emphasized the Government of Malaysia’s commitment to the SOTF and full engagement in the intergovernmental negotiations. He also highlighted the importance of these consultations to gather further inputs into the SOTF outcome documents. RC Karima El Korri described the Summit of the Future as “a unique opportunity to rethink our approaches and reinvigorate collective action by aligning multilateral institutions and frameworks with the political, social, and economic realities of today’s world.” She commended Malaysia’s engagement and determination to follow through on internationally-agreed frameworks.”Richard Marshall, UN Senior Economist and Juanita Joseph, Head, Office of the UN Resident Coordinator & Strategic Planner, delivered comprehensive presentations on process and outcomes and an insightful reading into the draft Pact for the Future and two annexes. The sessions provided an avenue for participants to familiarize themselves with the Summit of the Future process and discuss the objectives, principles, actions and commitments detailed in the drafts of the Pact documents. At the conclusion of the briefings, both the UN in Malaysia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the crucial role of government agencies and civil society organizations in translating the Pact of the Future commitment and actions into actions and solutions at country-level, building on promising SDG progress to raise the ambitions and deliver an inclusive equitable, inclusive, prosperous and sustainable future for all in Malaysia.
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09 February 2022
Act Now for Our Common Future
Embrace the possible that’s the call of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, a blueprint for a better world.
Everyone can join the global movement for change.
ActNow is the United Nations campaign to inspire people to act for the Sustainable Development Goals.
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Story
10 July 2024
UN Country Results Report Malaysia 2023: Supporting Malaysia’s Path to Sustainability and Inclusion in Turbulent Times
Download the report hereWorking under the umbrella of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2021-2025 (CF) and drawing on information available on our website via the UN INFO platform, this report reflects the dynamism of 2023. In line with the UN development system reforms, the UNCT continues to deliver tangible results, under the leadership and coordination of the Resident Coordinator.The UNCT, in collaboration with its diverse partners, works towards fostering an equitable and inclusive economy guided by a human rights approach to development. Programmes include enhancing the skills of women entrepreneurs, combating forced and child labour in the palm oil industry, expanding social protection, and ensuring youth access to technical and vocational education and training (TVET). Furthermore, the UN remains dedicated to assisting the Government in safeguarding Malaysia's abundant biodiversity, protecting the environment and combating climate change. The UN remains resolute in fulfilling its commitments to the Government and civil society by actively exploring new opportunities to accelerate SDG progress through systems and institutional strengthening.
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Story
19 June 2024
#WorldRefugeeDay: “Our work is crucial in keeping refugees safe, and ensuring that their access to justice is preserved.”
Read the original story hereWhat is your name and designation.My name is Devendiran Paramanantham , and I head the Legal Protection Unit in UNHCR Malaysia.Can you describe the work of the Legal Protection Unit?In brief, my team works to ensure the physical protection of refugees and asylum-seekers – in particular in mitigating the detention of refugees and asylum-seekers for immigration offences - while advocating for better access to justice and access to asylum .Let me give you some specific examples of what this means.On a day to day basis, our work will include intervening with the authorities when refugees and asylum-seekers are detained for immigration offences, including working with partners to provide legal representation and assistance so that refugees and asylum-seekers– especially highly vulnerable individuals like children – are not wrongfully charged for immigration offences and not detained.When we are informed that refugees or asylum-seekers have been arrested or detained for immigration offences, the team will advocate for their release. When we are given access by the authorities, this work includes travelling across Malaysia to detention centres where refugees and asylum-seekers are detained. Our intervention also includes advocating for search and rescue, access to territory, and the safe disembarkation of boats carrying asylum-seekers who may be in need of protection – especially when they are facing distress at sea.Some of the team members are responsible for liaising with law enforcement authorities who contact us to verify the authenticity of UNHCR’s documentation. In fact, my team also runs the UNHCR Detention Hotline to make it easier for authorities to call and verify refugees’ documents, and for refugees, NGOs, and others to report when refugees have been detained for immigration offences. Continuous advocacy to ensure that the Government and law enforcement agencies recognise the documentation that UNHCR issues to refugees is a key priority for the team.Thus, we focus a great deal of attention on training and awareness-raising sessions with law enforcement agencies to enhance their understanding of refugee protection – including understanding the features of refugee documentation and how to verify their authenticity.When there are complex protection cases, our job also includes conducting protection assessments to ascertain what interventions are required. For instance, with cases of refugees who are survivors of trafficking, my team will need to work with authorities and partners to provide these refugees with the necessary protection under the relevant national Acts and/or legal instruments.All of this work would not be possible without close engagement with law enforcement agencies – including the police and immigration authorities – as well as the legal fraternity, such as magistrates and judges, and also the Bar Council and the Legal Aid Centres, and others working in the area of legal protection. We engage in advocacy and dialogue with these stakeholders to address legal and protection matters relating to the prevention of, and response to the detention of refugees and asylum-seekers, as well as the overall safety of refugees while they are in the country.Why is the work of the Legal Protection Unit especially important in a country like Malaysia where there is no legal framework to manage refugees?The absence of a legal framework for refugees in Malaysia basically means that they do not have legal status to remain in this country. By law, refugees are considered as undocumented migrants, and as a result, do not enjoy freedom of movement because they are at risk of arrest, detention, and forcible deportation to a country where their lives or freedom may be at risk. They also cannot work legally – and face the risk of arrest for working without proper documentation.With no laws in place that define refugees as people needing international protection or that define the rights of refugees, they face dire challenges in every aspect of their lives in the country. For instance, refugees are unable to access legal work, formal education, or affordable healthcare. In light of this difficult protection environment, the work of the Legal Protection Unit is crucial in keeping refugees safe, in preventing their arrest, detention, or deportation and ensuring that their access to asylum and justice is preserved. It is not an exaggeration to say that often our interventions affect refugees’ life and liberty in fundamental ways, which is why our interventions need to be timely and strategic, and in close cooperation with key stakeholders where impact can be made – especially with law enforcement authorities.As you have emphasised, advocacy with law enforcement authorities is crucial, especially in a country like Malaysia with its complex protection environment for refugees. Can you describe some of the work that LPU does to improve advocacy with authorities and the judiciary in Malaysia? I’ll start with one pressing protection issue as an example – and that is access to immigration detention centres. UNHCR has not received approval from Immigration authorities to access immigration detention centres since August 2019. This has unfortunately prevented UNHCR from seeing those detained to determine if there are individuals in need of international protection and to advocate for their release.In light of this, our advocacy focus with the Immigration Department and relevant Government agencies and Ministries, including at the highest level, has been for immediate access to those who may be in need of our protection, and more broadly on all matters regarding the arrest, detention and deportation of refugees and asylum-seekers. Advocating for alternatives to detention has also been a key priority in our work, especially since accessing asylum is not a crime.Beyond that issue, we believe it is important to continue improving cooperation by conducting frequent engagements with law enforcement agencies, Governmental stakeholders, and the judiciary through courtesy visits or dialogues on various issues of mutual concern.This includes also strengthening our efforts with other stakeholders. For example, we collaborate with the National Human Rights Commission (SUHAKAM) on a variety of activities to sensitise authorities on refugee issues and broadly enhance the refugee protection environment, including joint monitoring activities in various parts of the country.Advocacy and engagement initiatives are also conducted through various workshops and lectures with a wide array of stakeholders - including members of the Judiciary, members of the Attorney-General’s Chambers, the Malaysian Bar Council, state legal aid centres, and academic institutions.One promising development has been our work with the judiciary. In addition to regular lectures, UNHCR has twice held a Judicial Engagement Workshop for Sessions Court Judges and Magistrate nationwide that preside on immigration related matters, in 2019 and again 2023. It proved to be a useful tool in enabling judges to build capacity on matters concerning refugees while exploring various case laws that affect refugees and creating a platform to share best-practices amongst peers. Through this workshop, LPU will develop various materials and guidance notes together with the Judiciary to better equip members of the bench when dealing with a matter concerning refugees. We are positive that this will create a pathway for better access to justice for refugees in Malaysia.Further to these advocacy efforts, LPU has worked closely with prominent lawyers from the Malaysian Bar Council in undertaking strategic litigation efforts to bring about good law that would improve the safety and security of refugees and asylum-seekers. This includes case laws involving children who have been charged for immigration related offences and have been placed in detention indefinitely. In some of these precedents, the Courts granted bail (as a form of alternatives to detention), indicated that whipping is not a mandatory punishment and that children should not be placed in detention. These case laws have been used in LPU’s advocacy with the Judiciary, Attorney-General’s Chambers and the legal fraternity, when pushing the envelope on alternatives to detention, combating arbitrary detention and ensuring the rights of refugees are protected.Can you talk further on an interesting initiative UNHCR started with the Malaysian Bar Council to help strengthen refugees’ legal awareness?For a few years now, UNHCR together with the Malaysian Bar Council has held the Refugee and Asylum-seeker Legal Aid Scheme (RALAS). This initiative provides refugees and asylum-seekers legal awareness on their rights in Malaysia.The RALAS session is designed to not only provide information on their rights but to also obtain free legal advice on a one-to-one basis. Lawyers from various state legal aid centres schedule visits to refugee communities to speak on several areas of law including criminal and immigration law, family law, employment law, civil law, and Syariah law. These sessions also allow for one-on-one consultations for those requiring specific legal advice.We have successfully collaborated with the Malaysian Bar Council, State Legal Aid Centres from KL, Penang and Kelantan. Over 3000 individuals from various refugee communities have benefitted from this programme since 2018. We hope to see it continue with more programmes in other states, like Johor.
UNHCR greatly appreciates the contributions of donors, including the European Union for its continued support under the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) funding, that helps UNHCR carry out crucial protection interventions such as the work done by the Legal Protection Unit at UNHCR Malaysia.
UNHCR greatly appreciates the contributions of donors, including the European Union for its continued support under the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) funding, that helps UNHCR carry out crucial protection interventions such as the work done by the Legal Protection Unit at UNHCR Malaysia.
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19 June 2024
#WorldRefugeeDay: Strengthening trust in UNHCR cards enhances protection for refugees
Read the original story here28 year old Myanmar refugee Naem remembers the first time she received an identity card from UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency in Malaysia and underwent a biometrics scanning process.“I was 16 years old, and I was very nervous to use the machine,” she said, referring to the biometrics scanner used in UNHCR’s biometric identity management system. “The scanner could not read my fingerprints and iris. I thought I would get scolded or won’t get a UNHCR card. I remember being calmed by the interpreter and UNHCR officer. They told me to not be afraid and helped position my fingers properly.”Today, renewing her UNHCR card and using the biometrics scanner is routine, and Naem sees its value. She said, “I think it’s important for UNHCR to update our photos - our face may have changed. My card is to verify my own identity. When I renew and update my biometrics, nobody can steal my identity and details, pretending to be me.”In Malaysia, UNHCR began using a biometric registration system since 2006, efficiently marrying fingerprinting identification with UNHCR's refugee database system.Biometrics is a unique, measurable characteristic or trait of a human being – such as a fingerprint - for automatically recognising or verifying identity. Today, UNHCR’s biometric system captures both fingerprint and iris images as well as a facial photograph. “It is important that UNHCR continuously strengthens the security of our registration system – and with it, the identity documentation that UNHCR issues to refugees and asylum-seekers - as it directly affects the quality of protection for refugees and asylum-seekers,” said Thomas Albrecht, UNHCR Representative.“For instance, a secure registration system helps prevent identity fraud. By referring to a unique human feature – like a fingerprint or an iris - we can determine if a person is already enrolled in our system, and verify if an identity claim is true. “This heightens the credibility of our registration system in the eyes of Governments, law enforcement authorities, and other stakeholders, and increases confidence in refugee identity records. This in turn facilitates the ability of refugees to credibly demonstrate their identity when dealing with law enforcement officials or accessing services and opportunities.”There are some 188,210 refugees and asylum-seekers registered with UNHCR in Malaysia, as of end April 2024. The majority are from Myanmar, fleeing conflict-affected areas or persecution. The remaining individuals are from 50 other countries fleeing war and persecution, including Pakistanis, Yemenis, Syrians, Afghans, Somalis and Palestinians. Refugees have no legal status in the country, and are regarded as undocumented migrants. They are subject to arrest and detention under Immigration laws. For refugees in Malaysia, UNHCR’s card is the only form of identity document they possess that identifies them as persons requiring international protection, and should not be arrested and detained under Immigration charges, and deported to a country where their lives or freedom may be at risk.In light of this difficult protection environment, UNHCR has made significant investments in further tightening its procedures and ensuring the integrity of its documentation, in consultation with Malaysian authorities, as part of its continued efforts to combat identity fraud and card counterfeiting. “For several years now, our cards have enhanced security features, including 3D holograms, bar codes, and a ‘Secure Quick Response’ (SQR) code, supported by biometric data collection at the UNHCR office, which includes iris and 10-finger scanning,” said Albrecht.“The authenticity of the card can also be verified through a mobile application called the UNHCR Verify Plus which allows law enforcement officials and others engaged in UNHCR’s protection and assistance work to easily verify the authenticity of the card.”The mobile application has allowed law enforcement officials and others engaged in UNHCR’s protection and assistance work to instantly verify the authenticity of the card, which increases the protection space for refugees in the country.On the ground, what is clear is how much refugees and asylum-seekers rely on the documentation issued by UNHCR to feel a sense of safety and security. Myanmar refugee Naem’s account attests to that: “Having a refugee card is important because it gives me protection. I get protection from being arrested. With the UNHCR card, I am able to get 50% off the foreigners’ rate at public hospitals. I can seek medical treatment at a government hospital, instead of going to a private clinic. If I am being discriminated or harassed or bullied, I feel confident enough to seek protection from the Malaysian police.“When I finally received my UNHCR card, I felt happiness, relief, and excitement for my own future. More than the protection, the biggest gift that I received from the UNHCR card, is the confidence. The confidence to go out freely, the confidence that I will not get arrested, the confidence that I can finally start dreaming of a future.” UNHCR greatly appreciates the contributions of donors, including the European Union for its continued support under the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) funding, that helps UNHCR carry out crucial protection work in the country.
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19 June 2024
EU, ILO, and UNICEF launch programme to address child labour in Sabah
Read the original story hereOn the occasion of the World Day Against Child Labour, the European Union (EU), International Labour Organization (ILO), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) joined forces to launch an 18-month programme aimed at promoting socio-economic inclusion and protecting the rights of children in Tawau’s oil palm plantations. The initiative seeks to provide these children with better access to education and training opportunities, helping to address the root causes of child labour in the region.Child labour in Sabah’s oil palm plantation is widespread. Many children work to assist their parents, risking their physical safety, health, education, and development. The 2018 Employment Survey in Plantations by the Government of Malaysia estimated that 33,600 children aged 5-17 work in the oil palm industry, with Sabah accounting for 58.8% (about 19,800 children) of this total.“Eradicating child labour is a top priority for the EU, and working proactively to prevent it is all the more urgent right now. We know that strong, local partnerships are essential to understand, address and prevent child labour. This is why we have joined forces with ILO, UNICEF, and local actors to implement this programme. The EU and its Member States are committed to ensure sustainable initiatives where no one is left behind,” said Dr. Audrey-Anne Rochelemagne, Cooperation Team Leader at the Delegation of the European Union.Children work on plantations because their families struggle financially due to low wages and the pressure to increase palm fruit production[1]. Limited access to formal education and to child protection and childcare services on oil palm plantations worsen the situation.“Every child, no matter their legal status, has a right to a childhood and the full range of rights guaranteed in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. We believe that change is possible for children working in and around plantations if all sectors – public and private – work together to prevent and address the root causes leading to child labour, and to promote remedy when it occurs. Partnership with stakeholders on the ground, like we are building today is urgent for children in Sabah,” said Robert Gass, UNICEF Representative in Malaysia.Children of oil palm plantation workers face numerous barriers to access alternative employment opportunities. These include lack of documentation, discrimination, isolation, and limited access to education. In this context, it is common for young persons aged 16 and above from the plantation community to be engaged as workers in the plantation. Without training and skill enhancement, young workers tend to remain in the high-risk and low-paid sector, making it difficult to break out of the vicious cycle of poverty.“ILO appreciates the collaboration with the Malaysian government and key stakeholders including employers in making collective efforts to address the challenge of child labour. We therefore welcome this new initiative and a continuation of our joint efforts to prevent and eliminate it,” said Panudda Boonpala, ILO Deputy Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific.The project will reach children, young persons as well as their families, both documented and undocumented, living and working in and around oil palm plantations in Tawau, Sabah. The project will run up to June 2025, and aims to:Improve data collection of children working in and around oil palm plantations,Increase awareness of child rights issues that are the root causes of child labour among key stakeholders,Ideate and accelerate solutions to address child rights issues that are the root causes of child labour,Produce replicable education and training model, andFormulate a joint roadmap between the government of Malaysia and the United Nations toward the eradication of child labour and related child rights issues in Sabah."Child labour is a severe human rights abuse and a form of labour exploitation, both globally and nationally. It not only prevents children from accessing education that they need for a better future, but also hinders older children from acquiring the skills that could enhance their employability," continues Boonpala. About the European UnionThe European Union is an economic and political union of 27 European countries. It is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. It acts globally to promote sustainable development of societies, environment and economies, so that everyone can benefit.
Follow the EU: Website Facebook X (Twitter) InstagramAbout ILOThe International Labour Organization is the United Nations agency for the world of work. We bring together governments, employers and workers to drive a human-centred approach to the future of work through employment creation, rights at work, social protection and social dialogue.
Follow the EU: Website Facebook X (Twitter) InstagramAbout ILOThe International Labour Organization is the United Nations agency for the world of work. We bring together governments, employers and workers to drive a human-centred approach to the future of work through employment creation, rights at work, social protection and social dialogue.
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15 May 2024
Transforming through Turbulence: UN Teams Coordinate for Collective Impact
Our planet has been plagued by socio-economic instability, record temperatures and deepening inequalities, worsened by crises and emergencies. The world has witnessed a stagnation in progress on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with only 15 per cent of targets set by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are on track as of 2023. The investment gap to achieve the SDGs jumped from US$2.5 trillion per year before the pandemic to US$4 trillion. To tackle complex challenges, it is crucial to invest in people and planet. On the ground in 162 countries and territories, UN teams, with revamped development coordination, support governments and people to navigate rough seas of change, accelerating progress and securing world leaders' commitments to the SDGs. Development coordination plays a game-changer role. UN Resident Coordinators (RCs) are using their leadership to make the most of the UN’s offer, with smarter and more catalytic investments and a greater focus on impact, efficiency, transparency and accountability. Resident Coordinators are helping steer UN teams towards catalyzing progress in key areas such as food systems, sustainable energy, education, digital connectivity, jobs and social protection and climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution that can accelerate progress across the SDGs.The 2024 Report of the UN Sustainable Development Group (UNSDG) Chair shows that across national, regional and global levels, Resident Coordinators are shaping tailored and integrated support for countries’ unique and complex development challenges. This joined-up approach benefits everyone, from Small Island Developing States to those poised to graduate to higher income and development stages. Moving away from isolated projects towards a systemic and holistic approach that addresses complex and interlinked challenges, the Resident Coordinators, leading UN teams, are boosting countries SDG acceleration by:Aligning integrated UN policy support to national needs: Resident Coordinators are leading UN teams’ efforts to deliver strategic support tailored to countries’ development needs and priorities. They are shifting UN assistance to collective policy advice for systems transformation. In 26 countries, RCs with their UN teams contributed to the adoption of nearly 500 laws and policies to end violence against women and girls, backed by the EU-UN Global Spotlight Initiative. 94% of host Governments agree that the UN development system adequately provides evidence-based policy advice today. Mobilizing partners: RCs are rallying all stakeholders to support national efforts for people and planet. From financial institutions and the private sector to parliamentarians, youth, women’s groups and academia, Resident Coordinators are bringing together all partners around the Government’s and UN efforts, building coalitions for sustainable development. Today, Resident Coordinators chair or co-chair with the Government a mechanism for coordinating development partners in 98 countries. In Africa, working with the Development Coordination Office regional team and in collaboration with the Office of the Special Coordinator for Development in the Sahel, new programmes were designed for an estimated $70 million, funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), focusing on gender equality, youth employment, and climate change. Building stronger synergies between development, humanitarian and peacebuilding: Investing in sustainable development remains the surest way to prevent and come out of crises, building long-term resilience even through response and recovery. In the Maldives, the RC led the UN team and the country to embrace the Early Warnings for All initiative, ensuring that all people are reached through multi-hazard early warning systems by 2027. RCs rallied the UN team and partners to tackle floods, wildfires and the impacts of cyclones in South Africa, Tanzania, Vanuatu, Bolivia, Chile and Peru. in 2023. In 57 countries, RCs have steered Peacebuilding Fund-backed initiatives, including 93 new ones totaling US$202 million. In countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mali, with the exit of peacekeeping and stabilization missions, RCs are gearing UN teams to stay and deliver, increasing targeted investments in development, creating spaces for dialogue and providing normative support. Unlocking smart funding for sustainable development: RCs are boosting UN teams’ access to pooled and thematic funding. Steered by RCs, 119 UN teams accessed US$268 million in Joint SDG Fund financial commitments across 236 joint programmes with 31 UN entities. In Mexico, this work led to the adoption of a National Care Systems Law, benefiting an estimated 46 million people by 2030. In Timor-Leste, the Fund allowed the Government to establish a scheme that allocates US$80 million for locally sourced food basket schemes, boosting demand for local production while feeding the hungry. In Uganda, the Fund’s resources, alongside US$13.5 million from the Government, boosted the Uganda Development Bank’s facility for concessional financing for climate-smart agriculture, climate-resilient infrastructure, and low-carbon industries. Ensuring accountability for results and boosting efficiencies: UN teams’ achievements are now more transparent to national Governments and the people we serve. All Resident Coordinator Offices (RCOs) today produce, with their UN teams, an annual results report. Digital platforms like UN INFO and UNCT websites in more than 130 countries, showcase UN teams' activities, partners, funding and results on the SDGs. Eight common premises were established in 2023 and 43 are underway, enabling UN teams to work better together. The first UN common back-office was established in Nairobi, offering 101 services to over 3,500 staff from more than 60 UN entities; similar efforts are underway in Tanzania, Brazil, Viet Nam and Senegal. These efforts unleash savings for UN entities, which are being invested in development initiatives, serving the needs of communities. With the Summit of the Future on the horizon, all eyes are on countries to demonstrate greater ambition and action for the SDGs. An effective and cohesive UN is fundamental to boost results and impact for people and the planet. More investments are needed. The Resident Coordinator system faces a US$54 million funding gap. A fully funded and fit-for-purpose RC system is pivotal for the whole UN family, to better support countries to accelerate the SDGs. There is no time to lose.Read the 2024 UNSDG Chair Report here.
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Press Release
21 June 2024
Milestone World Refugee Day marker with first ever commemorative Khutbah sermon in mosques
For the first time, mosques across the Federal Territories of Malaysia will carry a specially-written World Refugee Day khutbah sermon for the Muslim community prayer service held once a week on Fridays. This will be delivered today during the Friday prayer service.UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency engaged Malaysian religious authorities to develop a khutbah sermon for the Friday prayer service, with messages of compassion, solidarity, and support for refugees. This is an unprecedented development in Malaysia, marking significant strides in more closely engaging Malaysian communities of the Muslim faith.The khutbah sermon will be delivered where the Friday prayer service is performed in all mosques under the administration of the Islamic Religious Department of the Federal Territory (JAWI) within the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan in Malaysia.The Friday prayer service khutbah sermon is delivered by the prayer leader, or Imam, to the congregation ahead of the commencement of the weekly prayers. In Malaysia, these sermons are standardised and coordinated by authorised state religious bodies.The special World Refugee Day khutbah sermon, titled "Humanitarian Crisis: A Test for Muslims", referenced global statistics on the refugee crisis worldwide and what it meant to be forced to flee.According to the text, “Refugees are not people who emigrate to seek a better life but rather leave their homeland to save their lives from oppression and tyranny involving race, religion, nationality, or social group membership. They deserve proper treatment and assistance to continue their survival.”The sermon called for compassion, and for Muslims to welcome refugees with humanitarian support.It stated, “Refugees are those who migrate to save their lives and religion from oppression and tyranny, not to seek a better life. Second: We are called to help alleviate the burden of refugees with any form of assistance such as shelter, food supplies, financial contributions, clothing, medical needs, and so forth. Third: Allah SWT is actually testing our faith in Him with the arrival of refugees and wants to elevate our status to become true believers (by protecting and helping refugees).”World Refugee Day is commemorated each year on 20 June to honour the millions of people around the globe who are forced to flee violence and persecution. The world community celebrate refugees’ remarkable fortitude and capacity for renewal, despite the daunting challenges they face.Forced displacement surged to historic new levels across the globe last year and this, according to the 2024 flagship Global Trends Report from UNHCR. The rise in overall forced displacement – to 120 million by May 2024 – was the 12th consecutive annual increase and reflects both new and mutating conflicts and a failure to resolve long-standing crises.In his World Refugee Day message, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi called on everyone to do more to show solidarity with refugees and work towards a world where they are welcomed, or can return home in peace.“At a time of division and upheaval, refugees – and those hosting them – need us all to pull together. We live in a world where conflicts are left to fester. The political will to resolve them seems utterly absent. And even as these crises multiply, the right to seek asylum is under threat,” said Grandi.Grandi said that a longer-term approach is key – sustainable action in education, energy, food security, employment, housing and more, working with states, development partners and others.He added, “Let’s not leave refugees in limbo; instead, let’s give them the chance to use their skills and talents and contribute to the communities that have welcomed them.“On World Refugee Day and every day, with courage, commitment and compassion, solutions are within our grasp.”Visit the JAWILink is external site for the full text of the World Refugee Day khutbah sermon for the Friday prayer service.
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Press Release
21 June 2024
#WorldRefugeeDay: UNICEF’s statement on access to education for refugee and stateless children
On World Refugee Day, we recognize the challenges faced by refugee children globally, who represent over 40 per cent of the world's displaced population. Of the 41,000 refugee children of school-going age registered with UNHCR in Malaysia, none of them have access to formal education. Only 34 per cent have access to informal education through alternative learning centres. This lack of access to formal education is also experienced by many stateless children in Malaysia.Education is a fundamental right, yet too many refugee and stateless children are not in school. Excluded from the education system, children are left without recognized credentials, social networks, mentors, or peer support. Additionally, their lack of legal status also puts them at risk of arrest and detention. As of September 2023, more than 1,400 girls and boys were reportedly held in immigration detention centres in Malaysia. As a result, refugee and stateless children struggle to live dignified lives, stunting their ability to grow to their full potential. All children, regardless of status, should have the opportunity to learn in school, in safety and without fear.The Convention on the Rights of the Child encompasses four interconnected and fundamental principles of non-discrimination, upholding the best interest of the child, the right to life, survival and development, and respect for the views of the child. As we commemorate World Refugee Day, let's remember that every child, no matter their circumstances, has a right to essential support and services like healthcare, education, and social protection. Together, we can work towards strengthening inclusive national systems that benefit all children in line with the Madani Government’s Ihsan, or Compassion principle.
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Press Release
28 March 2024
Statement by UNICEF Malaysia on the Citizenship Amendment Bill updates
Read the original statement hereUNICEF commends the government’s welcome steps to not proceed with proposed amendments relating to Malaysia-born stateless children, and foundlings. This decision reflects a responsiveness to public concerns and underscores a commitment to upholding the rights and welfare of vulnerable populations, especially children. UNICEF acknowledges and supports such actions that prioritize the protection of children's rights, aligning with international conventions such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child.It is equally important to recognize that the remaining regressive amendments will impact certain groups of children and pose a threat to their fundamental rights. The proposed amendments, if implemented, risk depriving these children of essential rights to healthcare, education, and family unity. To ensure the protection of children's rights and uphold the principles of equality and inclusivity, it is imperative that these remaining amendments undergo comprehensive review by a Parliamentary Special Select Committee (PSSC). This process will enable a thorough examination of the potential impact of the amendments and allow for the consideration of diverse perspectives and stakeholder input. By subjecting these amendments to full parliamentary scrutiny, we can uphold the integrity of the legislative process and make the best decision for all children in Malaysia.UNICEF stands ready to support the government in this process, building on partnership and joint commitment for realizing children's rights, for an inclusive society where no child is left behind.
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Press Release
28 November 2023
KPWKM and UN Malaysia light up Menara Kuala Lumpur in orange - launching the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (IDEVAW) and 16 Days of Activism
Kuala Lumpur, 24 November – KL Tower was lit up in orange today to celebrate this year’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (IDEVAW) and 16 Days of Activism, beginning Saturday the 25th of November. The evening launch event, organised by The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Malaysia, brought together key stakeholders in the arena towards ending Gender Based Violence (GBV) to collectively and symbolically launch the global call to end violence against women in Malaysia.
Present at the event were Yang Berhormat Dato’ Sri Nancy Shukri, Minister of Women, Family & Community Development (KPWKM), Karima El Korri, United Nations Resident Coordinator for Malaysia, Singapore & Brunei Darussalam, Dr. Asa Torkelsson, UNFPA Malaysia’s Country Representative, Datuk Dr Maziah Che Yusoff, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development and Dr Wan Nur Ibtisam Binti Wan Ismail, Director General of the Department of Women’s Development, alongside other key representatives from government, academia, and civil society.
In her welcoming remarks, Dr Asa Torkelsson began by highlighting the dark reality still faced by millions of women and girls today: “Violence against women and girls sadly remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations that continues to happen. According to the United Nations, globally, 736 million women - that is almost 1 in 3 - have been subjected to physical or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both at least once in their lifetime.” She acknowledged the strides that Malaysia had made so far to address social, legislative and enforcement gaps in the battle against gender-based violence, and highlighted Malaysia’s regional successes including being the first Asian country to introduce a specific law on domestic violence (the Domestic Violence Act 1944), and being the first to develop the trailblazing One Stop Crisis Center (OSSC) to support victims of gender-based violence.
In the Minister’s keynote speech, YB Dato’ Sri Nancy Shukri reminded the audience that the impacts of violence against women were not limited to women, but had widespread societal ramifications. Not only were survivors less likely to participate meaningfully in their communities or labour force, she revealed that gender based violence also had the ability to break down family structures and perpetuate generational cycles of violence. Ultimately, the stunted development of women and their families can impact the socio-economic development of communities and countries as a whole.
“UN Women estimated that the global cost of violence against women amounted to a whopping 1.5 trillion US dollars, stemming from loss of employment and productivity, and major resources required for social services, the justice system, health-care agencies and employers. As a nation or as a global community, we are all worse off when women are disempowered,” she said.
In line with Malaysia’s international commitments to tackling violence and discrimination against women, the Minister described several ongoing government initiatives to address domestic violence: “Operationally, a Committee on Addressing Domestic Violence was established as an institutionalised multi-stakeholder platform for implementing and monitoring concerted efforts to address domestic violence. We are also in the final stages of updating JKM’s Guideline on Handling Domestic Violence Cases, which serves as a reference and guidance to the relevant agencies to coordinate and handle the cases effectively.” The Minister highlighted Malaysia’s recent strides in enacting gender-focused policy, including the Sexual Harassment Act, the Anti-Stalking Section in the Penal Code, and amendments to the Employment Act. She also cited the government’s commitment to gender-responsive budgeting, and lauded the ongoing efforts of dedicated Gender Focal Teams within each Ministry. In line with legislative developments, she hoped to continue launching nationwide sexual harassment awareness roadshows in the new year, especially upon the establishment of the new Anti-Sexual Harassment Tribunal. Lastly, she stressed that addressing violence was a shared responsibility between the government, the private sector and all Malaysians: “We must all play a part in ensuring our workplaces are environments of safety, where there is zero tolerance for harassment or violence of any kind. The private sector has an immense role to play in ensuring that workplace culture proactively evolves to become inclusive, non-discriminatory and in consideration of unpaid care work duties of all employees - female as well as male.”
A panel session titled “Identifying and Strategising Key Social and Legislative Investments needed towards ending Violence against Women in Malaysia” was then held, moderated by Tehmina Kaoosji, Independent Broadcast Journalist. The session drew on the expertise and experience of panellistsACP Siti Kamsiah Hassan, Principal Assistant Director, D11 Unit, PDRM, YBrs Dr Wan Nur Ibtisam, Director General, Women’s Department, KPWKM, Tengku Aira Tengku Razif, Assistant Representative, UNFPA Malaysia, and Sumitra Visvanathan, Executive Director, WAO. The launch event concluded with a press conference featuring the Minister Yang Berhormat Dato’ Sri Nancy Shukri, Datuk Dr Maziah Che Yusoff and Dr Wan Nur Ibtisam from the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, alongside Dr Asa Torkelsson and Tengku Aira Tengku Razif representing UNFPA Malaysia.
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View photos from the event here.
ABOUT UNFPA
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is an agency under the UN that aims to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person's potential is fulfilled.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
For further inquiries or any other related media matters, kindly please contact UNFPA Malaysia at malaysia.media@unfpa.org
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Press Release
24 October 2023
United Nations Day Malaysia 2023
The United Nations in Malaysia commemorated the 78th anniversary of the United Nations (UN) today in Taman Tugu, Kuala Lumpur.
The event, under the theme Act Now on UN Day and Every Day! amplifies the Act Now! campaign, aimed to inspire people to act for the Sustainable Development Goals and commit to a healthy planet, an inclusive economy, a just society and a world working together.
Leading the commemoration were Ms. Karima El Korri, the UN Resident Coordinator for Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei Darussalam, and YB Datuk Mohamad bin Alamin, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia. The event witnessed the participation of 160 UN staff and over 150 guests, including government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives from civil society, youth organizations, religious leaders, academia, the private sector, and the media.
In her address, Ms. El Korri underscored the founding purposes and principles of the United Nations upheld in the organization’s Charter, and said: “As we look back on nearly eight decades of commitment to peace, security, human rights, and development, we acknowledge our successes and setbacks. And with unwavering resolve and resilience, the UN stands as a beacon of international unity and a source of hope for people around the world.”
The United Nations in Malaysia is comprised of 22 UN agencies of the UN Country Team (UNCT), all working in support of Malaysia's efforts to achieve inclusive and sustainable development. UN Resident Coordinator Karima El Korri said: “Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to globally agreed frameworks is unquestionable. We applaud the nation’s fresh perspective on the economy and society outlined in Malaysia Madani, Ekonomi Madani, and the many macro and local-level initiatives drive the country’s transformation. The establishment of the Malaysia-UN SDG Trust Fund is a testimony to the government’s commitment to engage all stakeholders. It is also proof of the strong trust in the United Nations as a results-driven partner.”
YB Datuk Mohamad bin Alamin extended his congratulations to the UN on its 78th anniversary and reiterated Malaysia's firm commitment to continued engagement with the UN. He stated, "Malaysia reaffirms its dedication to continuing cooperation with the UN and its member states, grounded in the principles of mutual respect and international law, as enshrined in the UN Charter.”
We also thank the UN in Malaysia for its continued work supporting the country in reaching its goals for a more sustainable and equitable future. The UN has accompanied us in our journey since independence, and we hope this partnership will continue to prosper.”
YB Datuk Mohamad bin Alamin added that Malaysia has always been an active participant in the UN, engaging with the global community through various means, from co-sponsoring resolutions to our continued support of UN peacekeeping missions, with over 800 personnel participating across various missions. Malaysia is also host to UN Global and Regional centres such as the WHO and UNDP Global Service Centres and UN Humanitarian Response Depot (UNHRD).
The UN Day event at Taman Tugu also featured the "Act Now!" storytelling session, where UN agencies in Malaysia enlightened the audience about their work in areas such as healthy aging, the care economy, sustainable tourism, immunization for hard-to-reach populations, refugee support, green urban spaces, promoting safe migration, inspiring small and medium-sized enterprises, and empowering children through disaster education. Participants also explored the Taman Tugu trail walks.
UN Day, celebrated every year on 24 October, commemorates the entry into force in 1945 of the UN Charter. It amplifies our common agenda and reaffirms the purposes and principles of the UN Charter that have guided us for the past 78 years.
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