Constructive Dialogue of Malaysia’s 6th Periodic Report at the 88th Session of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)
Malaysia has successfully concluded the constructive dialogue for its 6th Periodic Report under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) at its 88th session on 22 May 2024. The Malaysian delegation was led by YB Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development. The members of the delegation include YBhg. Datuk Dr. Maziah Che Yusoff, the Secretary General of Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, YBhg. Dato’ Nadzirah Osman, Permanent Representative of Malaysia to the UN and other International Organisations in Geneva and officials from key government ministries and agencies namely Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, the Attorney General’s Chambers, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Human Resources, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Rural and Regional Development, Department of Islamic Development and Department of Shariah Judiciary.
This is the third time that Malaysia presented its periodic report since its accession to the CEDAW on 5 July 1995.
During the constructive dialogue with the Committee, Malaysia reported its progress in promoting gender equality and highlighted continuous commitment to improving the rights and situation of women in Malaysia. Malaysia highlighted the steps taken by the government to address challenges faced by Malaysian women particularly in areas such as employment, representation in leadership political and public life and socio-economy. Malaysia emphasised ongoing efforts and strategies to overcome these obstacles and build a more equitable society.
The Committee also commended Malaysia for its efforts to amend criminal laws namely the Domestic Violence Act 1994 [Act 521] and the Penal Code [Act 574], specifically to criminalise the act of stalking in 2023 to address gender-based violence against women and girls. The Committee has also applauded the Government’s initiative in abolishing the mandatory death penalty.
Malaysian Delegation has also provided clarifications on many issues of interest to the Committee members, including the issues relating to the dual-legal system practices in Malaysia; gender stereotyping; and measures to increase number of women in politics and in decision-making positions. Malaysia assured the CEDAW Committee of its firm commitment to strengthening further the national machinery for gender equality and women empowerment, including through multi-stakeholders’ engagements.
At the end of the session, the Country Rapporteur commended Malaysia for its progress in mainstreaming gender in our country’s agenda, which reflects the country’s dedication to creating a more just and inclusive society for all women and girls.
