Over 30 houses, including occupied homes, in Kg Jalan Papan, Klang, were demolished, despite instructions from the state government that no forced evictions or demolitions of occupied homes and premises should be carried out.
PETALING JAYA: The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) is calling for an immediate halt of further evictions in Kg Jalan Papan, Klang, until the affected residents have been properly consulted.
Suhakam also calls upon the state government to provide humanitarian assistance and temporary shelter for families that were affected by the demolition work.
It also wants authorities to engage with residents in good faith to develop long-term resettlement or housing solutions that uphold the right to adequate housing.
“(Meanwhile) the state government is to review its housing and land development policies to prevent recurrence of forced evictions, ensuring that all future projects are carried out in line with human rights standards and due process,” said the commission in a statement.
Suhakam emphasised that progress and development must be pursued in a manner that respects human dignity, protects vulnerable communities, and upholds the rule of law.
“The right to adequate housing is not merely a policy choice but a legal and moral responsibility of the state.”
Suhakam’s statement came following reports on the ongoing demolition work in the village to make way for a redevelopment project.
Apart from forced evictions, authorities have also arrested residents and activists who oppose the demolition.
Over 30 houses, including occupied homes, were demolished, despite instructions from the state government that no forced evictions or demolitions of occupied homes and premises should be carried out.
Suhakam reminded all authorities that the right to adequate housing is a fundamental human right, recognised under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), which Malaysia supports.
It also pointed out that forced evictions, if found to be carried out without due process, consultation, or provision of alternative housing, are inconsistent with the country’s international human rights obligations.
“Evictions must never render individuals or families homeless or vulnerable to further human rights violations.”
