Kuala lumpur: The government, through the Ministry of Finance (MoF), has approved a grant of RM14.39 million to the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) for its 2023 operational expenses and to ensure the fulfillment of its founding objectives.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying highlighted that the grant is the highest amount approved by the government for SUHAKAM to date. The funds are allocated to cover various operational costs, including the fixed allowance of SUHAKAM Commissioners, emoluments, rental operations, utilities, and the execution of SUHAKAM’s annual programs and activities. Additionally, the grant will facilitate the one-time purchase of assets such as vehicles.

Lim noted that the allocation was determined based on the 2023 Budget review session, SUHAKAM’s expenditure performance, and the government’s financial capacity during that period. During the session at the Dewan Rakyat, Lim also acknowledged proposals from William Leong Jee Keen (PH-Selayang) and Hassan Abdul Karim (PH-Pasir Gudang) advocating for increased funding for SUHAKAM.

Lim assured that the government would assess appropriate allocations for SUHAKAM’s needs, subject to the government’s current financial capacity. She emphasized the government’s consistent support for SUHAKAM since its establishment in 2000, underscoring their commitment to ensuring that the commission can operate effectively and achieve its objectives.