The Right to Be Seen- Some people spend their entire lives fighting not for privileges, but simply for recognition. At SUHAKAM, the students stepped into the stories and discovered why the right to belong begins with the right to be seen.

The BAC Law Society visited the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) Headquarters on the 13th of July 2026 for an eye-opening programme titled “The Right to be ‘Seen’ — Navigating the Legal Labyrinth of Statelessness with SUHAKAM.” More than just an educational visit, it was an opportunity to look beyond legislation and case law, and into the lives of individuals whose identities remain unrecognised despite calling Malaysia home.

The visit introduced participants to SUHAKAM, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia, established under the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999. As Malaysia’s national human rights institution, SUHAKAM plays a vital role in promoting human rights awareness, advising the Government on legal reforms, investigating complaints of human rights violations, and advocating for policies that uphold the fundamental liberties guaranteed under the Federal Constitution.

The highlight of the day was a thought-provoking panel discussion on statelessness. The participants were warmly welcomed by an experienced panel consisting of Puan Paremeswari from the Education, Outreach and Promotion Division, Mr Irsyad Hamilin from SUHAKAM Sabah (joining virtually), and Ms Crystal Foo, with three (3) other SUHAKAM representative. The discussion was moderated by our organising chairperson, Carolyn Njoku.

Throughout the session, the speakers unpacked what statelessness really means, not just as a legal term, but as a lived experience. Participants learned how the absence of recognised citizenship can affect nearly every aspect of a person’s life, from enrolling in school and accessing healthcare to securing employment and basic public services. Beyond explaining the legal framework, the speakers shared real challenges faced by stateless communities and the ongoing efforts by SUHAKAM to advocate for fairer policies and greater public awareness.

For many participants, it was a reminder that the law is more than legislation and courtrooms as it is deeply connected to people and their everyday lives. Conversations surrounding citizenship, identity, and human dignity encouraged students to think critically about how legal systems can both protect and unintentionally exclude individuals.

After an eye-opening panel session and reflection session, participants were divided into two groups for a guided tour of SUHAKAM Headquarters. The tour offered a behind-the-scenes look at the Commission’s work, from handling complaints and conducting investigations to organising outreach programmes and public education initiatives.

It was also a valuable opportunity for students to engage directly with SUHAKAM officers, ask questions, and gain a deeper appreciation of how human rights advocacy is carried out in practice.

The four-hour visit passed quickly, but the lessons extended far beyond the walls of SUHAKAM. It reinforced the importance of empathy in legal practice and reminded aspiring lawyers that understanding the human impact of the law is just as important as understanding the law itself.

Human rights begin with recognition. Sometimes, the most important lesson is not simply learning the law but learning to see the people behind it. The participants learned that every name deserves recognition. Every person deserves rights. Every story deserves to be seen.

The visit to SUHAKAM served as a meaningful reminder that the law is, above all, about people—their dignity, identity, and right to belong. It inspired participants to see the importance of listening, learning, and advocating for a society where no one is left unseen or unheard.

A huge congratulations to the BAC Law Society for organising and leading such a valuable and impactful visit. Your dedication to creating meaningful learning experiences is truly commendable. Want to be part of more insightful visits and enriching experiences like this? Join the BAC Law Society and be part of the journey now!