SUHAKAM advised that the Chairman, Chief Children Commissioner and the two Children Commissioners are designated and remunerated on a full-time basis. However, the Act does not explicitly provide for members of SUHAKAM to be appointed on full-time basis. The SCA further notes that SUHAKAM proposed an amendment to address full-time membership, though this was not progressed. 

The SCA reiterates its concerns that the enabling law of an NHRI should provide that members of its decision-making body include full-time remunerated members to ensure the independence of the NHRI from actual or perceived conflicts of interest, stable tenure, regular and appropriate direction for staff, and the ongoing and effective fulfilment of the institution’s functions. 

The SCA acknowledges reports that SUHAKAM is proposing provisions to enable the King to designate members on a full-time basis. SUHAKAM is recommended to continue advocating for measures for the appropriate amendment to the Act. 

The SCA refers to Paris Principle B.3 and to its General Observation 2.2 on ‘Full-time members of an NHRI’.