United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights: A Game-Changer for Malaysia’s Corporate Landscape
The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) is championing the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) as a crucial framework to bridge the gaps between corporate growth and human rights. Suhakam Chairman Hishamudin Yunus emphasized that the UNGPs rest on three pillars: the government’s duty to protect human rights, the corporate responsibility to respect these rights, and the necessity of effective remedies for violations.
Corporate Responsibility and Human Rights
Hishamudin stressed that while businesses hold immense potential for driving positive change in the economy, they also carry a profound responsibility to ensure that their growth and operations do not come at the cost of human dignity. "Fundamental violations of human rights such as forced labour, exploitation of migrant populations, and human trafficking are grave concerns that cannot be addressed by governments alone," he said. "They also require the active and committed participation of the business community."
Embedding UNGPs in Governance Structures
Hishamudin urged Malaysian businesses to go beyond lip service and embed the UNGPs in their governance structures and operational practices. Suhakam is actively engaging stakeholders – from multinational corporations to small and medium enterprises – to instill the principles of fairness, non-discrimination, and sustainability in Malaysia’s corporate DNA.
National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights
Law and Institutional Reform Minister Azalina Othman Said announced the impending launch of the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights. A draft of the plan is expected to be ready by next month, which she described as a "significant step forward" in balancing Malaysia’s economic ambitions with its human rights obligations. The plan aims to help businesses align with international human rights standards, guide businesses of all sizes in incorporating human rights due diligence, and address any harm that arises.
Conclusion
The United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights offer a crucial framework for Malaysia’s corporate and governance landscape. By embedding the UNGPs in governance structures and operational practices, Malaysian businesses can ensure that their growth and operations promote human dignity and respect. The National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights will play a crucial role in promoting human rights and upholding international standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights?
A: The United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights are a set of principles that aim to ensure that businesses respect human rights and do not contribute to human rights violations.
Q: What are the three pillars of the UNGPs?
A: The three pillars of the UNGPs are the government’s duty to protect human rights, the corporate responsibility to respect these rights, and the necessity of effective remedies for violations.
Q: How can Malaysian businesses embed the UNGPs in their governance structures?
A: Malaysian businesses can embed the UNGPs in their governance structures by incorporating human rights due diligence into their operations, providing training for employees, and ensuring accountability for human rights violations.
Q: What is the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights?
A: The National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights is a plan aimed at promoting human rights and upholding international standards in Malaysia’s corporate and governance landscape.