Malaysia abandons plan for new National Harmony Commission

Aaron Ago Dagang said the Ministry concluded, after two consultation sessions involving civil groups, government agencies, scholars and community leaders, that forming a new National Harmony Commission was not feasible. The ministry will instead focus on bolstering current institutions, including the Department of National Unity and Integration, the Neighbourly Community initiative and the Community Mediator, which are viewed as more practical and cost-effective.

The move also prevents duplication of duties and expenses that a new body would entail. Previously, the National Unity Consultation Council drafted three bills, one of which proposed a Harmony and Reconciliation Commission, but implementation stalled due to overlapping jurisdiction with agencies like the Human Rights Commission and police. The ministry now plans to revive efforts to draft legislation for the Harmony and Reconciliation Commission, emphasizing preventive and conciliatory measures.