Malaysia and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD): Key Facts for Malaysians
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is a landmark international human rights treaty that promotes full equality, dignity, and participation for persons with disabilities (OKU) worldwide. Adopted by the UN General Assembly on 13 December 2006 through resolution A/RES/61/106, the CRPD opened for signature at UN Headquarters in New York on 30 March 2007.
Malaysia actively engaged with this global commitment to inclusivity. The country signed the CRPD on 8 April 2008 and formally ratified it on 19 July 2010 (some sources note 19 April 2010 for initial steps, but official UN records confirm ratification effective 19 July 2010). This ratification demonstrates Malaysia's pledge to protect the rights of OKU and align national laws and policies with international standards.
As a State Party, Malaysia is bound to implement the CRPD's principles, including non-discrimination, accessibility, reasonable accommodation, and full participation in society. The CRPD complements domestic laws like the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 (Act 685), Uniform Building By-Laws (UBBL) By-Law 34A, and MS 1184:2014 (Code of Practice for Universal Design and Accessibility in the Built Environment).
Malaysia's Declaration and Interpretative Statement
Upon ratification, Malaysia made the following declaration:
“Malaysia acknowledges that the principles of non-discrimination and equality of opportunity as provided in articles 3 (b), 3 (e) and 5 (2) of the said Convention are vital in ensuring full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity, which shall be applied and interpreted on the basis of disability and on equal basis with others. Malaysia declares that its application and interpretation of the Federal Constitution of Malaysia pertaining to the principles of non-discrimination and equality of opportunity shall not be treated as contravening articles 3 (b), 3 (e) and 5 (2) of the said Convention.
Malaysia recognizes the participation of persons with disabilities in cultural life, recreation and leisure as provided in article 30 of the said Convention and interprets that the recognition is a matter for national legislation.”
This declaration clarifies Malaysia's approach to interpreting the Federal Constitution and emphasizes that cultural participation (Article 30) is subject to national laws.
Malaysia's Reservation
Malaysia entered a reservation stating:
“The Government of Malaysia ratifies the said Convention subject to the reservation that it does not consider itself bound by articles 15 and 18 of the said Convention.”
- Article 15 addresses freedom from torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.
- Article 18 covers liberty of movement and nationality.
These reservations mean Malaysia is not legally bound by those specific provisions. Some international observers and civil society groups have called for their withdrawal to strengthen full alignment with the CRPD.
Malaysia has not signed or ratified the Optional Protocol to the CRPD, which allows individuals to submit complaints directly to the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Why the CRPD Matters for Malaysians Today
Ratifying the CRPD reinforces Malaysia's commitment to:
- Promoting non-discrimination and equality for OKU in employment, education, healthcare, transport, and public life.
- Ensuring accessibility in buildings, information, and services.
- Supporting independent living, community inclusion, and participation in cultural, recreational, and political activities.
- Advancing Malaysia's vision of livable, inclusive cities and an ageing-friendly society.
Despite progress, challenges remain in full implementation—such as updating laws, improving enforcement, and addressing gaps in accessibility. Advocacy continues for stronger alignment, including potential withdrawal of reservations.
How Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT Supports CRPD Compliance
As experts in disability access consulting Malaysia, we help businesses, developers, architects, local authorities, and organizations implement CRPD principles through practical, compliant solutions:
- Accessibility Audits aligned with CRPD, MS 1184:2014, and UBBL By-Law 34A
- Universal Design Advice for inclusive buildings, workplaces, hotels, and public spaces
- Compliance Certification and reports for approvals
- CPD Seminars on CRPD interpretation, non-discrimination, and accessible design
Contact us to ensure your project supports Malaysia's CRPD obligations and creates truly inclusive environments.
Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT Level 6, Menara Darussalam, 12 Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Phone: +60 3-2779 7117 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Visit accessconsultants.asia for expert CRPD compliance Malaysia, universal design Malaysia, accessibility consulting, and disability access audits. Explore our Australian expertise at sydneyaccessconsultants.com.au.
Together, let's build a more inclusive Malaysia for all!