KUALA LUMPUR: Several policies and laws connected to human rights are expected to go through significant changes next year to better protect the people, says Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.

The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reforms) said among these will be the tabling of the highly anticipated Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill in Parliament by the middle of 2025.

She said this followed seven engagement sessions that involved 1,500 experts and stakeholders nationwide, including international experts from Australia, Canada, South Africa and Indonesia.

“These sessions provided valuable insights into global best practices for an FOI law and reflect our commitment to fostering transparent, inclusive and accountable governance.

“By engaging diverse stakeholders, the FOI law will align with Malaysia’s needs and aspirations while strengthening our democracy, access to information, empowering citizens and building trust in the government,” she said in her speech during the Human Rights Day Forum 2024 here yesterday.

In July, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reforms) M. Kulasegaran announced that the FOI Bill is expected to be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat by the end of this year.

He said the Bill would give all Malaysians access to information on any ministries or government agencies.

However, he said information on personal data, matters that threaten national security, defence and diplomatic relations will be excluded.

Azalina also announced several new upcoming policy changes that are expected to be implemented in 2025.

This includes the planned appointment of additional Children’s Commissioners, who will work alongside the current Children’s Commissioner chief, to further strengthen advocacy and protection for children.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/12/11/azalina-stronger-human-rights-laws-next-year