Human Rights Issues in Malaysia Essay -- Human Rights

Human rights violations occur on a daily basis in Malaysia. Recently, according to the Associated Press in an article published in The Hindu, an estimated 25,000 protestors rallied on the streets of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, demanding electoral reforms prior to the next national polls (Associted Press, 2012). Police fired â€Å"tear gas and water laced with stinging chemicals† into the crowd of protestors as retaliation to violation of pre-set barriers by the protestors (Associted Press, 2012). However, prior to that, there were several hours of peaceful protest. Authorities stated that the demonstrators had no right to use Independent Square, â€Å"a symbolically important venue that hosts parades and high-profile celebrations† as their protest site (Associted Press, 2012). Activists feel that the Election Commission is prejudiced citing falsified voter registration lists and concerns regarding Prime Minister Najib Razak’s ruling coalition having an â€Å"un fair upper hand† in the elections. (Associted Press, 2012). Although elections do not need to be held until mid-2013, previous rumors state that Najib may dissolve Parliament next month and seek a new mandate in June. Other demands include longer campaigning times and absentee ballot problems, and although Foreign Minister Anifah Aman admits that there are issues, officials feel that many of these concerns are exaggerated (Associted Press, 2012). Although protest concerns merit consideration, primarily, what this event demonstrates is the continued disregard for basic human rights and freedoms in Malaysia. Clearly, government response to this protest supports the rejection of basic human rights and freedoms to Malaysian citizens. Additionally, a previous protest in July 2011 also di... ...rg/news/2012/01/23/malaysia-promises-reform-unfulfilled Human Rights Watch. (2012). World Report 2012: Malaysia. Retrieved April 30, 2012, from Human Rights Watch: http://www.hrw.org/world-report-2012/world-report-2012-malaysia Pichai, U. (2010, March 25). Malaysian government urged to end abuse of migrant workers. Retrieved May 8, 2012, from Mizzima News: http://www.mizzima.com/news/regional/3722-malaysian-government-urged-to-end-abuse-of-migrant-workers.html The Sydney Morning Harold. (2012, April 29). Xenophon caught in Malaysia protests. Retrieved April 29, 2012, from The Sydney Morning Harold: http://www.smh.com.au/national/xenophon-caught-in-malaysia-protests-20120429-1xsjb.html Thompson, J. (July, 25 2011). Australia, Malaysia sign refugee deal. Retrieved May 7, 2012, from ABC News: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-07-25/malaysia-signs-refugee-deal/2809512