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Edmund Bon underscored the significance of Malaysia’s ASEAN theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, emphasising its connection to the protection of the right to freedom of religion and belief in the region. Inclusivity ensures that everyone is free to practise, express, change, or reject religion without fear of discrimination, marginalisation, or violence.

Edmund Bon emphasised that ASEAN’s future lies in its ability to lead, not just regionally, but globally. ASEAN and AICHR’s position as a global reference point for multilateralism, partnership and peace should be elevated. Further, AICHR must assert its place in ASEAN to forge a common path based on shared values and aspirations.

AICHR Chair Edmund Bon said the proposed ASEAN Declaration on the Right to a Safe, Clean, Healthy, and Sustainable Environment should not only be a document of principles, but a platform for action — a step forward in ASEAN’s journey to protect its environment and uphold the rights of its peoples for generations to come.

AICHR Chair Edmund Bon highlighted that Malaysia is advocating for the adoption of two ASEAN declarations this year — on the right to a safe, clean, healthy, and sustainable environment; and on promoting peace, inclusive growth, sustainable development and the right to development.

These remarks by Edmund Bon were delivered during the first occasion that an AICHR Chair has addressed the high-level segment of a UN Human Rights Council session. He commended the Council for its efforts to further its relationship with the AICHR, and called on the Council to fight for human rights together with the AICHR.

Edmund Bon, Chair of AICHR, emphasised that development is about improving the lives and well-being of people, allowing them to thrive in society. Economic growth must ensure that the benefits of growth are shared equitably and sustainably across the population. Finally, the right to peace is essential to drive inclusive growth and sustainable development.

AICHR Chair Edmund Bon pledged that AICHR will continue to advance the promotion and protection of human rights through its numerous programmes, in alignment with ASEAN’s vision to foster a people-oriented and people-centred community. Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability” is not merely a vision; it is a call to action.

Edmund Bon, Representative of Malaysia to AICHR, outlines the human rights priorities for ASEAN 2025 during his term as AICHR Chair. He welcomes the unparalleled opportunity to address pressing human rights challenges facing ASEAN, and emphasises that Malaysia cannot countenance the dilution of international human rights law and standards, nor be wilfully blind to impunity.

Edmund Bon paid tribute to the late Ambassador Hla Myint of Myanmar, and highlighted how the unique nature and diverse membership of AICHR fosters new ways of doing things and are key elements of AICHR’s success in human rights diplomacy.