At its first meeting in Langkawi from Feb 11 to 14, Malaysia’s AICHR representative Edmund Bon will advocate reforms to strengthen transparency, accountability, and regional collaboration, aiming to expand AICHR’s role beyond its current advisory function.

In a statement today, other focuses include “the rights of victims and survivors in conflict situations, peace and peacebuilding initiatives, and proposed Asean declarations on environmental rights, inclusive growth, sustainable development, and the right to development”.

AICHR representatives from all Asean member states will participate, with Timor-Leste’s representative attending as an observer.

A transition workshop is being held today, ahead of the meeting, to facilitate a handover from outgoing to incoming AICHR representatives, review past initiatives, and align future strategies.

The session will include a dialogue with civil society groups, ensuring that diverse perspectives inform AICHR’s agenda.

“The outcomes of the workshop will enrich AICHR’s deliberations, reinforcing Asean’s commitment to rule of law, democracy, human rights, sustainability, and inclusive development,” the statement read.