Malaysia's stance

Asiaweek Oct 31, 1997

THE Malaysians are the latest to call for a re-examination of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Asiaweek asked Foreign Minister Abdullah Badawi, 57, to explain Malaysia's stance. Excerpts:

Is there an Asian definition of human rights?

THERE is no separate definition of hu-man rights for Asia or for other regions. What we are saying is that measures in protecting and promoting human rights should differ from region to region and should take into account local peculiarities such as the political situation, the level of socio-economic development, cultural practices, religious beliefs. A balanced and holistic approach to promoting human rights in all its aspects should be the objective of all countries, but at a speed and phase comfortable to them.

What priority should human rights be given in developing countries?

MANY developing countries have a large number of citizens living in poverty. The government's responsibility should therefore be, among other things, to ensure its citizens have proper meals, roofs over their heads, adequate educational opportunities, health services. In this context, a country facing internal civil or political strife would establish priorities different from another country undergoing economic and financial difficulties. One should not presume that citizens' rights to free expression have priority over economic, cultural or religious rights. Additionally, individual countries should be allowed to decide whether in promoting human rights, they should give priority to individual over community or society rights.

If the Declaration were to be updated, what changes would Malaysia want?

THE 1948 Declaration was accepted by the General Assembly with 48 countries in favor, none against and eight abstentions. Today there are 185 countries in the General Assembly, and you tell me how universal is the Declaration now compared with when it was adopted. It is only logical and reasonable that it be reviewed. At the very least, views of the countries that did not exist then should be heard . . . We will make proposals for changes but we prefer to make them in proper meetings. We have no intention of forcing others to agree to our proposals. In the same manner, we also do not wish to be forced by others to agree to theirs.

Japan and Germany have suggested retaining the original Declaration and adding a Declaration on Obligations. What do you think?

SUCH discussions would only heighten the dichotomy between those who consider the Declaration a perfect document and those who do not. Malaysia believes there should first be general agreement on a need to review.