Malaysia Reaffirms Child Rights Commitment at UN 100th Session in Geneva

Malaysia Strengthens Child Rights Advocacy on Global Stage

Geneva, Switzerland – Malaysia has strongly reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and upholding children's rights at the 100th Session of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC), held at the United Nations headquarters in Geneva on January 22 and 23, 2026. This significant participation underscores Malaysia's intensified efforts to align with global standards through a range of policy initiatives, legislative measures, and comprehensive support programmes.

The Malaysian delegation was led by Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM). Her leadership marked a historic milestone, as it was Malaysia's first appearance at a CRC dialogue since 2007 and the first time the delegation was headed by a minister, reflecting an 'elevated level of the government's political commitment' to children's rights and welfare.

Key Initiatives and Progress Highlighted

During the session, Minister Shukri detailed several wide-ranging initiatives undertaken by the Malaysian government to strengthen child welfare and protection. These measures are designed to ensure that 'every child in Malaysia receives comprehensive protection, has access to quality basic services, and grows up in a safe environment which supports optimal development.'

• Establishment of the Department of Child Development: A dedicated body focused on safeguarding children's welfare.
• Implementation of Legal Reforms: Ongoing efforts to update and strengthen laws related to child protection.
• Enhancement of Policies and Support Programmes: Initiatives specifically tailored to promote the best interests of children.

The CRC Committee acknowledged and commended Malaysia's ongoing efforts in strengthening child protection and welfare. Concurrently, the Committee also presented several proposals for further improvement, which Malaysia will consider for implementation.

Malaysia's Role as a State Party to the CRC

As a State Party to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Malaysia acceded to in 1995, the country is obligated to submit periodic reports to the CRC Committee on the progress and status of children's rights within its borders. The CRC is a pivotal United Nations human rights instrument, comprising 54 articles that encompass various aspects of children's rights, protection, and development.

Malaysia's active engagement in this session underscores its dedication to fulfilling its international obligations and its continuous pursuit of a robust framework for child protection and development at both national and international levels.