Submitted by Denitsa on
This report is part of CRIN's access to justice for children project, looking at the status of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in national law, the status of children involved in legal proceedings, the legal means to challenge violations of children’s rights and the practical considerations involved in challenging violations.
Malaysia has acceded to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, however, the CRC does not have the force of law and cannot be directly enforced by the courts. All actions on behalf of children must be commenced by a litigation representative. Legal aid is available only to those who qualify under a stringent means test. It is possible to bring a case on behalf of a victim(s) who cannot be ascertained or on behalf of a group of children. There are specialised courts for children. Complaints alleging human rights violations may also be submitted to the he Human Rights Commission of Malaysia.
