​SUHAKAM begins key partnership on business and human rights

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), Felda Global Ventures Holdings Berhad (FGV) and the Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA) have together initiated a first step towards business' impact on the enjoyment of human rights.

Such an initiative, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is an important milestone in the efforts of FGV and FELDA to revisit their operations from a human rights perspective.

Human rights violations, such as child or forced labour and prevention of free association can occur within the business sphere. Migrant workers are sometimes lured to work at plantations with promises of safe working conditions and fair wages, only to find themselves subject to exploitation. Human rights violations also affect the environment.

With this MoU in place, SUHAKAM will discuss, among others, moving forward on the implementation of the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGP), as well as addressing business-related human rights impacts.

SUHAKAM will also provide guidance on the interpretation of the 31 principles of the UNGP.

SUHAKAM is ready to bring this endeavour to other businesses to level up their sustainability initiatives to ensure respect for, and compliance with human rights in their business operations.

SUHAKAM reiterates that the development of a National Action Plan on business and human rights will demonstrate Malaysia's leadership in advancing sustainable socio-economic development and protecting and promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms in the region.

Date: 7 April 2017

Source: Human Rights Commission of Malaysia